Christopher Brock and his nine students in the "honors
biotechnology 2" career and technical education class at
Williams Field High School in Gilbert this school year have
achieved a feat normally associated with professional
researchers and scientists. They have sequenced a gene. Using a
series of scientific techniques and special lab equipment to
break down the genetic makeup of the Mexican Palo Verde tree,
students in Brock’s class were able to separate, or “isolate,” a
gene that helps organisms burn sugar for energy – a process
known as “glycolysis.” Humans, fish, plants and other organisms
use glycolysis in metabolizing food, so this gene is universal.
Brock’s students also developed a map of the gene’s makeup
which, once published, could enable scientists to make further
advancements in research of diseases such as obesity and
diabetes. Now, Brock is compiling the results of the students’
research to submit them to a peer-reviewed scientific journal
for publication. Publication is an accomplishment the