Stop the bleeding!

Activity Summary
In this lesson students will learn the relationship between protein and its role in structure and function at the cellular and tissue level by using zebrafish cranial blood vessels as an example. Zebrafish are used to study stroke in humans. In this activity students are exploring both the concept of using model organism to study human disease as well as seeing the roles of protein. In groups of four, students are randomly assigned a protein that they will use to assemble blood vessels (“straws”) in the zebrafish brain in order to transport blood (“red colored water”) to neurons (“petri dishes”) in the brain. The connective proteins are from a spectrum of clay to cling wrap. The groups must assemble their blood vessels by using their protein as a connector that will prevent the leakage of blood while allowing blood flow to the neurons. If bleeding or blockage to the neurons occur the zebrafish may suffer a stroke.

Grade Levels
9-12

Learning Objectives
1. Demonstrate the relationship between protein, structure and function
2. Define and describe stroke

Lesson Materials (view or download)
PowerPoint
Lesson Plan

Keywords
protein, blood vessels, stroke, zebrafish

Last updated: 5/21/2015