We have designed the following parts which consist of Ginsentide TP1, Lupin peptide P5, miRFP670nano coding sequences, and a linker that we have used in our fusion protein parts, which we have also uploaded as composite parts.
| NEW Basic Parts | Part Name | Link |
|---|---|---|
| BBa_K5063000 | Ginsentide TP1 coding sequence | Part:BBa K5063000 - parts.igem.org |
| BBa_K5063001 | Lupin Peptide P5 coding sequence | Part:BBa K5063001 - parts.igem.org |
| BBa_K5063003 | miRFP670nano coding sequence | Part:BBa K5063003 - parts.igem.org |
| BBa_K5063006 | Alpha helix-forming linker | Part:BBa K5063006 - parts.igem.org |
| NEW Composite Parts | Part Name | Link |
| BBa_K5063008 | TP1P5 fusion protein coding sequence | Part:BBa K5063008 - parts.igem.org |
| BBa_K5063009 | TP1P5_ miRFP670nano fusion protein coding sequence | Part:BBa K5063009 - parts.igem.org |
| BBa_K5063019 | TP1P5_ GFP fusion protein coding sequence | Part:BBa K5063019 - parts.igem.org |
| BBa_K5063012 | GFP_P5_insert_sequence | https://parts.igem.org/Part:BBa_K5063012 |
| BBa_K5063013 | GFP_TP1_insert_sequence | https://parts.igem.org/Part:BBa_K5063013 |
| BBa_K5063014 | GFP_TP1_P5_insert_sequence | https://parts.igem.org/Part:BBa_K5063014 |
| BBa_K5063016 | miRFP670nano_TP1 insert sequence | https://parts.igem.org/Part:BBa_K5063016 |
| BBa_K5063018 | DsbA insert sequence | https://parts.igem.org/Part:BBa_K5063018 |
There is a lack of knowledge in the synthetic biology field, but also TCM and CVDs. We have organized a diverse set of educational activities that are specifically tailored to promote iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine), TCM, and CVDs and its significance to the broader community.
We created the ATGC card game, an educational biotech game that empowers players to craft their own rules and offers both multiplayer and single-player modes. With its unique cards, the game allows students to gamify the structure of DNA, engaging them in key concepts such as base pairing, DNA strand directionality, and hydrogen bonds. By playing ATGC, students reinforce their understanding of DNA without relying on rote memorization, making learning both interactive and enjoyable.
We created BIOGENIUS, an immersive card game that simulates managing a biotech company. Aimed at high school and university students, BIOGENIUS allows players to explore biotech processes, technological advances, and market dynamics through strategic gameplay. As a Living Card Game (LCG), it continually introduces new cards representing industry shifts and scientific progress, helping students grasp real-world biotechnology applications and decision-making in a fun, gamified way.
We created The Bacterial Clash, an educational board game designed to spark interest in microbial ecology, genetic engineering, and evolutionary principles. In this game, players assume the role of bacteria competing for survival in an agar plate environment, allowing them to explore biological interactions, competition, and adaptation. The game promotes a deeper understanding of microorganisms and their role in genetics and evolution.
We created the Project Superbug Annihilation Game, a narrative-driven educational tool focused on biotechnology, genetics, and the ethical implications of technological advancements. Set in a future where genetic engineering has created societal divides, the game teaches players about the immune system, pathogens, and the use of plasmids in genetic engineering. Players embody an immune cell fighting superbugs, learning scientific principles through engaging, ethical challenges.
We created DNA way home, a hand-drawn storybook that tells the tale of a lost DNA strand on a journey through the human body, encountering characters like ligase and restriction enzymes. This creative story introduces fundamental synthetic biology and genetic engineering concepts, such as ligation and transformation, in a way that is both engaging and accessible. The storybook aims to make complex biological processes easier to understand for younger audiences through imaginative storytelling.
We created a series of 10 educational posters focused on raising awareness of common genetic diseases found in Hong Kong, using cute mascots to represent conditions like trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). These posters aim to dismantle the stigma around genetic diseases, fostering empathy and understanding among students. By making the information approachable and visually appealing, we hope to change perceptions and encourage acceptance of those with genetic conditions.
We created posters on synthetic biology and biotechnology, which educate the public about fundamental concepts and exciting developments in these fields. Displayed throughout our school, the posters have sparked curiosity and conversation, helping students and the community develop a more informed understanding of synthetic biology. This initiative aims to engage students in the rapidly evolving world of biotechnology.
We created the "Junior Synthetic Biology" booklet, a 60-page educational resource designed for young students aged 10-12. This booklet simplifies complex synthetic biology concepts and includes hands-on experiments to inspire curiosity in the field. By introducing pioneers like Dr. Jennifer Doudna, we hope to inspire the next generation of scientists and make synthetic biology accessible to younger audiences.
We created an educational song celebrating iGEM and synthetic biology, performed by our team’s alumni and close partners. Set to be released on social media platforms, this song aims to educate the public and students about synthetic biology in a casual and joyful manner, reinforcing our team’s mission to spread knowledge in creative, engaging ways.
We also organized a number of activities to target different groups of people.
Maths and Science Week Booth: This booth combined elements of iGEM and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to educate visitors about biotechnology and its connections with traditional practices. Attendees learned how synthetic biology can complement ancient remedies.
HKSSPC Booth: At the Hong Kong Student Science Project Competition (HKSSPC), we showcased our iGEM and our ATGC card game project.
Tech on Edge Booth: This booth was part of a STEAM education event where we introduced younger students to DNA structure through our ATGC card game. The goal was to foster an early interest in science and biotechnology.
JSSE Booth: At the joint school science exhibition (JSSE), we presented our work to a broader audience, aiming to inspire students to explore synthetic biology through interactive demonstrations and discussions.
We also hosted several workshops to create hands-on learning experiences:
KWMWPS Banana Extraction Workshop: In this primary school workshop, students learned the basics of DNA extraction using bananas, making molecular biology fun and accessible to young learners.
Elderly Home CVD Workshop: We held a workshop at a local elderly home to educate residents about cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and provided tips and exercises on prevention and heart health. The workshop emphasized the importance of exercise and diet in reducing CVD risk.
One-Week Workshop: This intensive workshop focused on synthetic biology fundamentals, designed for secondary school students.
High School Bioethics Workshop: We organized a bioethics workshop featuring guest speaker Dr. Ann Lau, which explored ethical issues surrounding organ donation and biotechnology, encouraging students to think critically about the moral implications of medical advancements.
We also hosted lectures to further engage the community:
Joint iGEM Team Lecture on TCM: Collaborating with multiple iGEM teams, we delivered a lecture on the role of biotechnology in modernizing Traditional Chinese Medicine, providing insight into how innovation can bridge old and new scientific practices.
In addition, we held exhibitions and interactive activities to spread awareness and spark curiosity:
Mini-Exhibition in the Library: A display featuring educational materials about genetic diseases and synthetic biology, designed to engage students with visually appealing content on these important topics.
Genetic Diseases Hunt: This scavenger hunt introduced students to genetic diseases in a fun and engaging way, combining learning with an interactive challenge around the school campus.
SKSS Open Day: At the SKSS Open Day, we showcased our iGEM project and its relevance to cardiovascular disease prevention, with hands-on activities for visitors.
We also distributed educational resources:
Primary School Gift Box: We created a special gift box for primary school students, filled with educational materials and simple science activities to introduce them to synthetic biology in a fun and engaging way.