Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) as a Rapid, Affordable and Effective Tool to Involve Students in Undergraduate Research

摘要: Undergraduate research (UR) is a high-impact practice (HIP) to engage undergraduate student in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), especially from underrepresented groups. UR experiences (UREs) can be integrated into the classroom, making authentic inclusive available all students. However, developing pedagogy challenging for faculty resource-limited labs, such as community colleges small liberal arts colleges. Often molecular biology methods are expensive, time-consuming need equipment not readily or affordable schools. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) one of most commonly used techniques labs many UREs. We have investigated loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) an inexpensive, accessible alternative PCR DNA enabling identification microorganisms context LAMP does require expensive instrumentation reagents uses found teaching labs. By performing technique, students learn several key scientific skills that will useful their graduate STEM careers. designed guided independent undergraduates included use LAMP. Students successfully applied technique culture samples common environmental bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus, were addition, able detect both Enterococcus directly sampled waters. To highlight accessibility affordability this URE, simple boiling method was preparation samples. Student response data show positive attitudes toward when utilized tool tackle relevant biological questions. The feasibility using simplified UREs points potential, more expanded application public engagement with science broader interactions community.