Decoding Monkey DNA

We will decode the monkey DNA sharing intresting questions and fun facts
Ibrahim Tokhi Noel Thomson
Grade 6

Problem

Decoding monkey DNA gives us important insights into genetic illnesses and diseases, but curing cancer isn't as simple as having a genetic blueprint of model. Cancer is a highly complex and big varied group of diseases, each with different genetic and environmental causes. Even within a single type of cancer, the genetic mutations can differentiate significantly between individuals. Making it difficult to find a one-size-fits-all cure.

 However, there are pros and cons while monkeys share many genetic similarities with humans, there are still crucial and big differences. These differences mean that treatment effects in monkeys might not work the same way in humans. Research on monkey DNA can provide models and diagrams, and help us understand certain aspects of cancer. But it doesn't directly translate into a cure of cancer for humans.

Finally, developing a cure for cancer involves rigorous testing, clinical trials, and approval processes to ensure safety and efficacy. This process takes years and requires extensive resources. While monkey DNA contributes valuable and special knowledge, it’s just one piece of the puzzle in the complex adventure and quest to cure cancer. But scientists are working on it…

Method

Question: The main question is how can we properly decode and influence the DNA of monkeys to have a stronger understanding of their genetic makeup and structure?

Hypothesis: Our hypothesis is that you can successfully decode the monkey DNA by first getting a sample of DNA from the monkey, place it under a microscope then identify the parts of the DNA.

Supplies: Monkey, DNA Extraction Kits. Thermal Cycler, Sequencing Equipment, Bioinformatics Tools, Laboratory Supplies.

Procedure: –First collect samples from the monkey DNA with methods like (blood, skin swabs, and tissue biopsies).

-Then purify the DNA extracted and remove proteins, and lipids.

-After that sequence the DNA and find the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases and amplify it through (PCR).

Then annotate the genomes to predict the role of genes with using (gene expression analysis).

   Experiment:  DNA Extraction: First Collect samples from the monkey cells available with methods like (blood, skin swabs, and tissue biopsies). Then treat them with chemicals to break down the cell membranes that release DNA.

Purification: Secondly purify the extracted DNA available to remove contaminants, making sure there is a clean sample for sequencing.

Sequencing: Thirdly Use next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to find out the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases in the DNA and fragment the DNA.

Bioinformatics Analysis: Then assemble DNA sequences into complete genomes, identifying genes, regulatory elements, and other features.

Functional Annotation: Finally annotate the genome to predict and find out gene functions, conduct gene expression analysis, and perform epigenetic studies to understand gene regulation.

Observation: Scientists observe that understanding monkey DNA can provide valuable knowledge into genetics, disease research, and etc. They notice holes in the current knowledge about primate genetics and identify the need to decode monkey DNA for further study and analysis.

 

Research

DNA extraction        step 1

The step begins with DNA extraction; where samples are collected and gathered from monkey cells with widely used methods available like (blood draws, skin swabs, or tissue biopsies). This step is important for filtering DNA from the cells. The cell membranes are broken down using chemical treatments, allowing the release of DNA for further processing.

Purification of DNA  step 2

After extraction, the DNA goes through purification to take out contaminants such as proteins and lipids that could affect sequencing and change sequencing. Techniques often have organic solvents or commercial purification kits; making sure the DNA sample is as clean as possible, which is important for obtaining accurate sequencing results.

Sequencing the DNA step 3

Once purified, the DNA is sequenced to find out the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine). Advanced technologies like next-generation sequencing (NGS) allow for rapid, fast, and high-throughput sequencing. NGS fragments the DNA, amplifies it through polymerase chain reaction (PCR); then sequences the fragments in parallel, producing large datasets efficiently and properly.

        Functional Annotation step 4

Understanding the functional elements within the DNA is very important. Researchers annotate the genome to predict the roles of genes and regulatory regions. Techniques like gene expression analysis reveal which genes are active in specific tissues. While epigenetic studies explore modifications that influence gene expression without changing the DNA sequence!

Applications of Decoded DNA         conclusion

The information gained and collected from decoding monkey DNA has diverse applications in research and medicine. It aids in understanding genetic diseases, contributes the development of new treatments helps enhance helps enhance and improve knowledge of primate biology                                                                                   problem why cont you cure cancer with the monkey DNA?

Decoding monkey DNA gives us important insights into genetic illnesses and diseases, but curing cancer isn't as simple as having a genetic blueprint of model. Cancer is a highly complex and big varied group of diseases, each with different genetic and environmental causes. Even within a single type of cancer, the genetic mutations can differentiate significantly between individuals. Making it difficult to find a one-size-fits-all cure.

 However, there are pros and cons while monkeys share many genetic similarities with humans, there are still crucial and big differences. These differences mean that treatment effects in monkeys might not work the same way in humans. Research on monkey DNA can provide models and diagrams, and help us understand certain aspects of cancer. But it doesn't directly translate into a cure of cancer for humans.

Finally, developing a cure for cancer involves rigorous testing, clinical trials, and approval processes to ensure safety and efficacy. This process takes years and requires extensive resources. While monkey DNA contributes valuable and special knowledge, it’s just one piece of the puzzle in the complex adventure and quest to cure cancer. But scientists are working on it…

                                                                  who       discovered the monkey dna how when and why?

The discovery of monkey DNA has been a gradual involving lots of scientists over the years. One significant progression was the sequencing of the rhesus macaque genome, which was completed in 2007 by an international consortium of over 170 scientists.

. This project was aimed to better understand and comprehend human biology and evolution by comparing human and monkey DNA.

. The rhesus macaque was chosen due to its long history as a lab animal and its genetic similarities to humans.

The sequencing of the rhesus macaque genome reveals that humans and macaques share about 93% of their DNA, providing valuable knowledge and information into genetic similarities and differences.

. This research has helped scientists study specific human diseases and develop new medical treatments by using monkeys as a diagram for a cure.

More recently, in 2023, scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences created the world's first chimeric monkey, a monkey with two different sets of

Question: The main question is how can we properly decode and influence the DNA of monkeys to have a stronger understanding of their genetic makeup and structure?

Hypothesis: Our hypothesis is that you can successfully decode the monkey DNA by first getting a sample of DNA from the monkey, place it under a microscope then identify the parts of the DNA.

Supplies: Monkey, DNA Extraction Kits. Thermal Cycler, Sequencing Equipment, Bioinformatics Tools, Laboratory Supplies.

Procedure: –First collect samples from the monkey DNA with methods like (blood, skin swabs, and tissue biopsies).

-Then purify the DNA extracted and remove proteins, and lipids.

-After that sequence the DNA and find the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases and amplify it through (PCR).

Then annotate the genomes to predict the role of genes with using (gene expression analysis).

                                                            Scientific method   


, by injecting stem cells from one embryo into another embryo of the same species

. This breakthrough could help generate more precise, accurate, and exact monkey diagrams for studying neurological diseases and other biomedical research.

These discoveries have been driven by the desire and interest to understand human biology better, develop treatments for diseases. And explore the genetic basis of various and specific traits and behaviors. The ongoing research continues and keeps continuing until it is finished to uncover new insights and applications for monkey DNA in science and medicine.

Question: The main question is how can we properly decode and influence the DNA of monkeys to have a stronger understanding of their genetic makeup and structure?

Hypothesis: Our hypothesis is that you can successfully decode the monkey DNA by first getting a sample of DNA from the monkey, place it under a microscope then identify the parts of the DNA.

Supplies: Monkey, DNA Extraction Kits. Thermal Cycler, Sequencing Equipment, Bioinformatics Tools, Laboratory Supplies.

Procedure: –First collect samples from the monkey DNA with methods like (blood, skin swabs, and tissue biopsies).

-Then purify the DNA extracted and remove proteins, and lipids.

-After that sequence the DNA and find the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases and amplify it through (PCR).

Then annotate the genomes to predict the role of genes with using (gene expression analysis).

Experiment:  DNA Extraction: First Collect samples from the monkey cells available with methods like (blood, skin swabs, and tissue biopsies). Then treat them with chemicals to break down the cell membranes that release DNA.

Purification: Secondly purify the extracted DNA available to remove contaminants, making sure there is a clean sample for sequencing.

Sequencing: Thirdly Use next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to find out the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases in the DNA and fragment the DNA.

Bioinformatics Analysis: Then assemble DNA sequences into complete genomes, identifying genes, regulatory elements, and other features.

Functional Annotation: Finally annotate the genome to predict and find out gene functions, conduct gene expression analysis, and perform epigenetic studies to understand gene regulation.

Observation: Scientists observe that understanding monkey DNA can provide valuable knowledge into genetics, disease research, and etc. They notice holes in the current knowledge about primate genetics and identify the need to decode monkey DNA for further study and analysis.

Experiment:  DNA Extraction: First Collect samples from the monkey cells available with methods like (blood, skin swabs, and tissue biopsies). Then treat them with chemicals to break down the cell membranes that release DNA.

Purification: Secondly purify the extracted DNA available to remove contaminants, making sure there is a clean sample for sequencing.

Sequencing: Thirdly Use next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to find out the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases in the DNA and fragment the DNA.

Bioinformatics Analysis: Then assemble DNA sequences into complete genomes, identifying genes, regulatory elements, and other features.

Functional Annotation: Finally annotate the genome to predict and find out gene functions, conduct gene expression analysis, and perform epigenetic studies to understand gene regulation.

Observation: Scientists observe that understanding monkey DNA can provide valuable knowledge into genetics, disease research, and etc. They notice holes in the current knowledge about primate genetics and identify the need to decode monkey DNA for further study and analysis.

                                                                            positive hypothesis          

Positive hypothesis:(My hypothesis is that you can successfully decode the monkey dna  by taking a (skin,hair,spit,ect) sample from the monkey you get a microscope which is strong then you put the sample in the microscope then identify the elements… leading to more understanding use of monkey dna and cure of illnesses.)

                                                             Null hypothesis and negative  

Null hypothesis:(When you decode the monkey DNA it does not cure cancer.)

 

Negative hypothesis:(there have been cases that have killed a monkey like in the mid-20th century, Dr. Robert J. White conducted experiments where he transplanted the head of one monkey onto the body of another. Unfortunately, the immune rejection killed the monkey nine days later.)

Immune rejection means that in any case the monkeys immune system treated the head like a foreign object and attacked it.

Fun Fact

Monkey in Space 

 

Some of the first monkeys to travel to space were also part of genetic studies. Understanding their genetic makeup and pattern helped researchers study the effects of space travel on life forms

 

Monkey DNA similarity with Humans

            Did you know that monkeys share about 93% to 98% of their DNA with humans? This genetic similarity is what makes them valuable and special subjects for studying human diseases and biology/illnesses.

 

Fun Fact

First Cloned Monkey 

The techniques used in decoding DNA also made the ways for cloning.The first cloned primate was a rhesus monkey named Tetra born in 1999. All of this thanks to advances in genetic technology.

 

Fun Fact

Enhanced Color Vision nov 15 2024

 

Some monkeys, like howler monkeys, have variations and specialties in their DNA that allow them to see a broader spectrum and range of colors compared to many other mammals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Data

How to Decode DNA?

Step 1: DNA extraction        

The process begins with DNA extraction, where samples are obtained from monkey cells using standard methods such as blood draws, skin swabs, or tissue biopsies. This step is crucial for isolating the DNA from the cells. The cell membranes are broken down through chemical treatments, which enables the DNA to be released and prepared for further analysis.

How to Decode DNA?

Step 2: Purification of DNA 

Once the DNA is extracted, it undergoes purification to remove contaminants like proteins and lipids that could interfere with sequencing or alter the results. This is typically done using organic solvents or specialized commercial purification kits. Ensuring the DNA sample is as pure as possible is essential for obtaining accurate sequencing outcomes.

How to Decode DNA?

Step 3: Sequencing the DNA

Once purified, the DNA is sequenced to determine the sequence and arrangement of nucleotide bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine). Advanced technologies, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), enable fast, high-throughput sequencing. NGS works by fragmenting the DNA, amplifying the fragments using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and then sequencing them in parallel, generating large datasets efficiently and accurately.

 

How to Decode DNA?                                                                

Step 4: Functional Annotation

Understanding the functional elements in the DNA is crucial. Researchers annotate the genome to identify the roles of genes and regulatory regions. Techniques such as gene expression analysis help determine which genes are active in particular tissues, while epigenetic studies investigate modifications that affect gene expression without altering the DNA sequence.

 

How to Decode DNA? 

Conclusion: Applications of Decoded DNA         

The data obtained from decoding monkey DNA has a wide range of applications in both research and medicine. It plays a key role in understanding genetic diseases, contributes to the development of new treatments, and enhances our knowledge of primate biology.




 

Problem: Why can’t you cure cancer with the monkey DNA

Decoding monkey DNA offers valuable insights into genetic diseases, but curing cancer is not as simple as analyzing a genetic blueprint. Cancer is a complex and diverse group of diseases, each with different genetic and environmental factors, making it difficult to find a universal cure. While monkeys share genetic similarities with humans, significant differences exist, meaning treatments effective in monkeys may not work the same in humans. Monkey DNA research provides helpful models for understanding cancer, but it does not directly lead to a cure. Developing a cancer cure requires extensive testing, clinical trials, and approval, which takes years and substantial resources. Monkey DNA is one piece of the puzzle in the ongoing effort to cure cancer.

 

 

 

Discovery of Monkey DNA

The discovery of monkey DNA has been a gradual process involving many scientists. A major milestone was the sequencing of the rhesus macaque genome in 2007 by an international team of over 170 scientists. This project aimed to understand human biology and evolution by comparing human and monkey DNA, with the rhesus macaque chosen for its genetic similarity to humans and its long use in labs. The sequencing revealed that humans and macaques share about 93% of their DNA, offering valuable insights into genetic similarities and differences. This research has contributed to the study of human diseases and the development of medical treatments. In 2023, scientists at the Chinese Academy of Sciences created the world's first chimeric monkey, with two different sets of DNA, to improve research in neurological diseases and biomedical studies. These ongoing discoveries aim to deepen our understanding of human biology, develop disease treatments, and explore genetic traits and behaviors.

Scientific Method

Question: How can we accurately decode and manipulate the DNA of monkeys to gain a deeper understanding of their genetic composition and structure?

Hypothesis: We hypothesize that it is possible to successfully decode monkey DNA by obtaining a sample, examining it under a microscope, and identifying its key components.

Supplies: Monkey, DNA extraction kits, thermal cycler, sequencing equipment, bioinformatics tools, laboratory supplies.

Procedure:

  1. Collect DNA samples from the monkey using methods such as blood draws, skin swabs, or tissue biopsies.
  2. Purify the extracted DNA to remove proteins and lipids.
  3. Sequence the DNA to determine the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases, and amplify it using PCR.
  4. Annotate the genome to predict the function of genes through gene expression analysis.


 

Scientific Method

Experiment: DNA Extraction: First Collect samples from the monkey cells available with methods like (blood, skin swabs, and tissue biopsies). Then treat them with chemicals to break down the cell membranes that release DNA.

Purification: Secondly purify the extracted DNA available to remove contaminants, making sure there is a clean sample for sequencing.

Sequencing: Thirdly Use next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to find out the order and arrangement of nucleotide bases in the DNA and fragment the DNA.

Scientific Method

Data Collection: During the experiment, gather data at each stage: DNA quality and quantity during extraction and purification, sequencing data during the sequencing process, and gene annotations and expression patterns during bioinformatics analysis and functional annotation.

Analysis: Analyze the collected data to identify alignments, patterns, similarities, and differences in the DNA sequences. Compare the monkey DNA to known sequences from other species to uncover evolutionary changes.

Conclusion: Our hypothesis was found to be incorrect, as it involved many complex steps. However, based on the available data, the experiment contributes more to understanding and potentially curing illnesses.


 

Bioinformatics Analysis: Then assemble DNA sequences into complete genomes, identifying genes, regulatory elements, and other features.

Functional Annotation: Finally annotate the genome to predict and find out gene functions, conduct gene expression analysis, and perform epigenetic studies to understand gene regulation.

Observation: Scientists observe that understanding monkey DNA can provide valuable knowledge into genetics, disease research, and etc. They notice holes in the current knowledge about primate genetics and identify the need to decode monkey DNA for further study and analysis.

 

Positive Hypothesis

We hypothesize that it is possible to successfully decode monkey DNA by collecting a sample (such as skin, hair, or saliva) from the monkey. The sample would then be examined under a high-powered microscope to identify its components, which could lead to a deeper understanding of monkey DNA and its potential applications in curing illnesses.

 

Null and Negative Hypothesis 

Null Hypothesis:
Decoding monkey DNA does not result in a cure for cancer.

Negative Hypothesis:
There have been instances where experiments have led to the death of monkeys, such as in the mid-20th century when Dr. Robert J. White transplanted the head of one monkey onto the body of another. Unfortunately, immune rejection caused the monkey to die nine days later. Immune rejection occurs when the monkey's immune system recognizes the transplanted head as a foreign object and attacks it.


 

Fun Facts

Monkey in Space

Some of the first monkeys to travel to space were also involved in genetic studies. By examining their genetic makeup and patterns, researchers were able to study the effects of space travel on living organisms.

 

 

 

Fun Facts

Monkey DNA Similarity with Humans

Monkeys share approximately 93% to 98% of their DNA with humans. This genetic similarity makes them valuable subjects for studying human biology, diseases, and illnesses.

 

Fun Facts

First Cloned Monkey

The techniques used in decoding DNA also paved the way for cloning. The first cloned primate, a rhesus monkey named Tetra, was born in 1999, thanks to advancements in genetic technology.

Fun Facts

Enhanced Color Vision
Certain monkeys, such as howler monkeys, have unique traits in their DNA that enable them to perceive a wider range of colors compared to many other mammals.

  What is DNA?             

•DNA stands for deoxyribo nucleic acid

Which is pronounced: de-oxy-ri-bo-nu-cliec-acid

•It’s like a code that carries genetic information in all living organisms.

•The DNA our cells how to grow, work, and reproduce

What is the (monkey) DNA

·Monkey DNA is the genetic code found in monkeys.

·Humans and monkeys share a lot of DNA.

·Monkeys, like chimpanzees and gorillas, are some of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

·By studying their DNA scientists can learn about evolution and how species are connected.

Why decode the monkey DNA?

•How did humans and monkeys evolve from a common ancestor: Because we humans and monkeys have lots of genetic similarities such as the DNA similarity, the chromosome similarity, etc.

 

•Studying and decoding the monkey DNA can help scientists understand diseases that affect both monkeys and humans.

•(Conservation efforts): Decoding the monkey DNA can help protect endangered species of monkeys.

 

Interesting facts about the monkey DNA

•Monkeys can have up to 24 chromosomes while humans have 23

•Over millions of years, small changes/mutations in the DNA have led to the differences we see between species

•Some monkeys can even be taught sign language to communicate.

 

Challenges in decoding the monkey DNA

•Monkey DNA is huge and complex, so decoding the monkey DNA takes a lot of time and effort

•Researchers must be careful when using animals such as the monkey (In this case) in studies to ensure they are treated humanely

 

Challenges in decoding the monkey DNA

•Monkey DNA is huge and complex, so decoding the monkey DNA takes a lot of time and effort

•Researchers must be careful when using animals such as the monkey (In this case) in studies to ensure they are treated humanely

 

What have we learned from the monkey DNA?

·Some monkeys, like chimpanzees use tools and communicate in advanced ways

·Studying diseases like HIV in monkeys has helped us learn how to fight diseases in humans

conclusion

 

Our Hypothesis:

We hypothesized that it is possible to successfully decode monkey DNA by collecting a sample (such as skin, hair, or saliva) from the monkey, examining it under a powerful microscope, and identifying its components. However, this hypothesis was incorrect for five reasons:

  1. We mentioned DNA extraction but did not address the need for chemical treatments to break down cell membranes and release the DNA.
  2. We failed to include the step of purifying the extracted DNA.
  3. We did not mention sequencing the DNA or identifying its elements (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine).
  4. We overlooked advanced techniques like next-generation sequencing and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
  5. We also neglected to include genome annotation and epigenetic studies in our process.

      

Summary

Overall, the project was successful for five reasons:

  1. We completed it without needing a fourth trifold.
  2. Our hypothesis was at least 25% correct.
  3. The trifold included a lot of relevant information.
  4. We stayed focused on the topic of decoding monkey DNA.
  5. Our explanation was detailed enough to be understandable.

However, there were areas for improvement. We could have added more color, reduced the number of trifolds, included additional pages of information, and provided more facts in the conclusion. Despite these areas for improvement, we did well on the CYSF project overall.


 

1  monkey's genetic code deciphered

2 Rhesus monkey genome reveals DNA similarities with ...

3Chimpanzee genome decoded

4DNA: Comparing Humans and Chimps

5Cancer Genes in Humans vs. Chimps: Why Are We More ...

6No, 'monkey virus DNA' was not found in COVID vaccines


 

6 youtube videos:

7Genetics | The Smithsonian Institution's Human Origins Program

8Scientists decipher chimp genome | Genetics

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Conclusion

My hypothesis was wrong but similar but the information and the steps were way more complicated than my hypothesis.I did not include steps 2(purification),3(sequencing) had a similar one to step 4 and step 5 was a conclusion.

Acknowledgement

thank you for reading this science project it has been a big adventure wish us luck and see you next time