Biology at the Oxford Natural History Museum
We all had a blast last Thursday 16th March spending the day at the Oxford Natural History Museum’s Gene and Cell Therapy day.
We were able to listen to four lectures all on different aspects of the application and ethics of Gene and Stem Cell therapies as well as their representation in the media. Then, during lunch, there were multiple stands for us to visit, ranging from temporary tattoos of DNA strands to DNA profile bracelets and a stand for vector and HIV pins.
We also had the chance to build our own vectors out of card, PlayDoh and toothpicks as well as trying to identify which sample had a gene mutation and solving it with “gene therapy” using colour changing powders.
Finally, we ended the day with an expert panel with questions asked on the availability of the therapies in developing countries and the regulations on them.
By Zara (U6)
