Counting cells and crunching numbers
Counting cells and crunching numbers
Students test each of two hypothetical drugs using different wavelengths to fluorescently label beta cells then count the ones that are replicating.
Explore the intersection of math and science with Diabetes Research: Beta Cells and Box Plots
The activity introduces students to promising trials with drugs that may stimulate beta cell replication. Beta cells are located in the pancreas and produce insulin. In type 1 diabetics, the pancreas does not produce insulin, a hormone that enables all their bodies’ cells to extract glucose from the blood for energy. The disease can be managed, but there is no cure. Yet.
Simulating the methods the Sanford researchers follow, students test each of two hypothetical drugs using different wavelengths to fluorescently label beta cells then count the ones that are replicating.
Ideally suited for middle grades and high school math and science, this unique STEM Behind Health simulation promotes student engagement in essential concepts and practices, including:
Katie Zucker, Director of Development for Zucker Productions, contributed to the development of this activity. Katie has been a tireless advocate for raising public awareness about diabetes since appearing before a Congressional committee looking into funding for diabetes research — at age 13, just two years after she was diagnosed with the disease.
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