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Our Cell Lab, a hands-on lab area in our Human Body Gallery, has a 20
minute activity to test various anti-microbial agents, including bleach.

Testing Antimicrobial Agents
Objective:  At this experiment bench visitors will be able to test the
effectiveness of several different types of antibacterial agents in killing
bacteria, using a quick, easy enzymatic test.

The indicator solution contains a molecule called fluorescein diacetate of
FDA.  In cells that are alive, enzymes (called esterases) convert the
colorless FDA into a green fluorescent compound called fluorescein.  This
mades th cells glow green under an ultraviolet (UV) light.  When cells are
dead and the enzymes are not active, the FDA doesn't get changed to
fluorescein and the solution remains colorless.

The focus is on the agents, not hand-washing or "germs" on our hands.  For
more details contact Ana Kaveh, Program Supervisor ([log in to unmask]) or Sara
Fruehling, Lab Manager ([log in to unmask])

Maija


Maija Sedzielarz
Coordinator, School Visit Programs
Science Museum of Minnesota
120 Kellogg Blvd.
St. Paul MN  55102
(651)221-4554  FAX: 651-221-4528
[log in to unmask]
Give EXPLORATIONS a try - self-guides to museum galleries for teachers and
students: http://www.smm.org/explorations

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