Overview

In this lesson plan, students will model the complex biologic manufacturing process. First, they will model the cellular expansion process that occurs in a bioreactor. Then, students will lyse the cells to isolate the proteins from the dyed cell debris. Lastly, they will model the advanced filtration process to purify proteins so they can be used as medicines.

Learning Objectives

• Students will be able to describe the steps of the biologic manufacturing process.
• Students will be able to identify key characteristics of safe biologic medicines and how to model this process effectively.
• Students will be able to understand how cells expand and create proteins, explain how cells are vectors for protein production, and recognize the importance of filtration for protein purification.
• Students will understand the importance of cells in creating biologic medicines.

NGSS Alignment

This lesson helps students prepare for these Next Generation Science Standards Performance Expectations:

• MS-LS1-2. Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways the parts of cells contribute to the function.

This lesson focuses on these aspects of NGSS Three Dimensional Learning:

Science & Engineering Practices Developing and Using Models

Disciplinary Core Ideas LS1.A: Structure and Function

Crosscutting Concepts Scale, Proportion, and Quantity

Materials

Materials List (per student group):

• 4 clear cups or containers (heat-resistant)
• 1 funnel
• 1 coffee filter or syringe with an attachable filter
• 1/4 cup warm water (105-110 °F)
• 2 packets of active yeast
• 1 Tablespoon sugar
• 1 Tablespoon hydrogen peroxide (standard 3%)
• Food dye
• Ruler
• Paper towel or tissues (optional)