This shorter, targeted simulation is adapted from the full-length “Protein Synthesis” simulation.

Discover a treatment for anemia in patients with chronic kidney disease. In this simulation, you will learn about the difference between protein synthesis in prokaryotic cells (using E. coli) and eukaryotic cells (using CHO cells). Analyze your samples using mass spectrometry to find out which cells are better for synthesizing a treatment.

Chronic kidney disease

Start your mission with a 3D animation explaining the purpose of kidneys and the effects of chronic kidney disease on the body. Learn how anemia can be caused by the disease and how erythropoietin (EPO) affects the production of red blood cells. Review your knowledge of protein synthesis and make a hypothesis before you start your research into a possible treatment. Which cells will perform better?

Prepare the erythropoietin samples

Your first task in the lab will be to prepare recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) that is transfected into E. coli and CHO cells. Prepare the two samples inside the biosafety cabinet then take the samples to the incubator. In a virtual lab we can speed up the incubation time so this step takes seconds instead of hours. Our helpful lab assistant will purify the samples while you review the synthesis of rhEPO with quiz questions.

Use mass spectrometry to analyze your samples

Prepare your samples for analysis. You will measure the mass to charge ratio of the two rhEPO samples using a mass spectrometer. Explore the histograms then answer questions about your results. Can you work out which cells are better for the production of erythropoietin? Was your hypothesis correct?