A VISIT TO CENTRE FOR CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

In today’s fast-paced world, the breakthrough in biotechnology has reached new heights. Grade XI and XII students of Oakridge International School, Newton Campus along with the faculty members had an opportunity of visiting the Center for Cellular and Molecular Biology located at Habsiguda, Hyderabad.

The session started with the students being briefed up about the trip and its importance in their daily as well as professional lives. Emphasis was laid primarily on the observation of instruments used in research process as well as the models of Genetic Engineering.

The students had the chance of viewing and learning various advanced technological methods employed by scientists today. Among the exhibits, they saw an electron microscope giving them  a view of a plant vacuole, advanced microscopic imaging of single celled fission and healing of wounds, a process formed Oligo synthesis which helps in identifying  the nucleotide sequence in DNA, and flow Cytometry which helps in identifying which stage a diseased cell is at to help in eradicating the disease.

 The biologists at the institute also shared with us the working of various live experiments involving Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) , liquid nitrogen with cryopreservation as well as apparatus which are actually used in biotechnological processes like an electrophoresis machine and radioactive protectivities.

 Natasha of grade XII A commented “the field trip to CCMB was a very enlightening one. We learned a lot about the various instruments that biotechnology companies’ use along with their functions with the help of our guide. He showed us fruit flies how they can be bred in the laboratory and explained Thomas Hunt Morgan’s experimentation with them.”

The students were greatly engrossed in the observation and listening to the guide provided, about the various functions of the instruments used in research. They were also showed a video on Fruit Fly Variations and Metamorphosis.

 Trisha of  XII A  commented “I had the opportunity of visiting the Centre of Cellular Molecular Biology. It was enriching experience which provided me with insight on the new technological advances found in Biology today. This memorable trip was an unforgettable one for me.”

“We were shown the effect of liquid nitrogen on different objects.  They enlightened us on the variations and mutation that occur on Drosophila melanogaster. On the whole it was a privilege to go to the CCMB. I’m glad my teacher took us to CCMB.” commented Akshay and Shreya of grade XII A.

The session ended with an interaction between the students and the guide, who was able to answer questions posed by the inquisitive students, who were eager to know more. study of the material .All in all it was an eye opener as well as an enriching experience that provided us ample knowledge in biology.