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Enzymes WebQuest

Introduction:
After you eat an ice cream cone. Your friend has to run out of the room as she feels horribly sick. You notice that this happens every time your friend eats milk products. Your task is to figure out why this may happen and the role that enzymes may play.

Task:
This quest challenges you and your partner to take on the role of medical research biologists. You are to uncover the mystery of the actions of enzymes and how they allow you to digest milk products but not your friend. Through your research you will discover what enzymes are made of, what role they play in digestion and how they accomplish their tasks.

Process:
1. Find out how reactions get started in cells

2. Using the web sites suggested begin to formulate an idea of how enzymes affect digestion of milk products

3. Figure out the chemical structure of enzymes

4. Find out where the particular enzyme for digesting milk products comes from

Resources: 
Click here to get started learning about enzymes:
General Enzyme Information

Click here to examine the structures of enzymes:
Enzyme structure

Click here to learn about the personal experiences of individuals with lactose intolerance:
Hymie Personal Page

Click here to gain some information from a lactose intolerance researchers:
Research Institute

Click here to learn about some treatments for lactose intolerance:
Dr. Koop's Help Page

Evaluation:

Each student will receive a grade on their write up which will equal a quiz grade. In the write up they must address the original questions of why a person may get sick eating milk products and what role(s) enzymes may play in this process.

Conclusion:

Now you have an idea of the kinds of problems a medical research biologist might deal with in their day to day work. You should have learned about an important biological chemical - enzymes. How these enzymes are structured, how they work, and what role they play in digesting milk products. Hopefully, the next time you eat your favorite ice cream, you will have a new appreciation for the way enzymes allow you to enjoy your treat.

Authors: Bob Allard, Jason Campbell, Marni Rivkin, Phil Stanko
Created: 10/08/99

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                                Page Sponsor:  Crystal Steker
                                Page Content Author:  Melissa O'Hara
                                Date:  11/13/2006