Project Overview
Our project was first inspired when we discovered the Genes in Space Competition. As we brainstormed topics for our Genes in Space project, we realized that astronauts often suffered from depression post-space travel. Working from there, we thought that epigenetic factors might change the astronauts DNA in space. Specifically, we wanted to see how DNA was methylated in space, so that future scientists could use our research to help prevent depression in astronauts. We then decided to join the Bio Builder Club competition, which meant that we would need an actual project, not just research. We intend, for our project, to design a polymerase that will preserve methylation of prokaryotic DNA during PCR. A previous iGEM (International Genetically Engineered Machine) team, Team Heidelberg 2015, had already begun researching how to preserve methylation during PCR. They had designed a polymerase called “PCR 2.0” that would preserve methylation during PCR. However, their polymerase didn't function at the high temperatures used during the process of PCR. We intend to continue their research, to design a polymerase that will preserve methylation of prokaryotic DNA during PCR.
