RNase one gene isolation, expression, and affinity purification models research experimental progression and culminates with guided inquiry‐based experiments

This new biochemistry laboratory course moves through a progression of experiments that generates a platform for guided inquiry‐based experiments. RNase One gene is isolated from prokaryotic genomic DNA, expressed as a tagged protein, affinity purified, and tested for activity and substrate specificity. Student pairs present detailed explanations of materials and methods and the semester culminates in a poster session. Experimental plans take into account the expense and time required to move from gene isolation to enzyme assays. This combination of instructor‐guided and student‐designed experiments is a manageable foray into guided inquiry‐based learning in a biochemistry laboratory course, while providing a cohesive story and context for individual experiments.