Doing the Molecular Splits: Hands-On Demonstration Tips to Promote Student Engagement Using Split Inteins in Molecular Biology

Abstract

Engaging undergraduates in the mechanisms of post-translational modifications lies at the heart of molecular and cell biology education. An important challenge for science educators is developing inclusive and equitable approaches and hands-on demonstrations to clarify post-translational modification mechanisms, such as the protein-splicing mechanism called split inteins. Here, we describe step-by-step assembly of recycled materials to help clarify the molecular action of split inteins in inclusive classroom teaching settings.