The Genome [ Explore the Frontiers ] | Exhibision

The Genome

In this zone, you gain basic knowledge about the genome and learn the cutting-edge technology of genomic analysis. Come experience genome research that cannot be seen through videos, graphic panels, or games.

What is the genome?

The area provides explanations on where and how does the genome exist in the body, and their roles. To find out where the DNA is, the main body of the genome, try reaching out to touch the hands-on device. Also, observe the actual DNA and chromosomes using a microscope.

Sequencing Puzzle

The exhibit allows you to learn the unique method of genomic analysis presented in a way which is similar to putting the pieces of a puzzle together. Human DNA contains approximately 3 billion base pair units and cannot be analyzed at once so the method of cutting the DNA into pieces of manageable sizes, analyzing them and putting them back together again, was developed and is being used. In this exhibit, visitors can virtually experience genome analysis by operating the plates on which ATGC is written.

The Production of Proteins from DNA

You will learn the process of self-replication of DNA, which is the substance of the genome, and the process of transition of DNA information to proteins as genes. Using the display device, the distribution and the higher-order structure of the source protein revealed from research data can be viewed freely.

The changes and the evolution of the genome

It is an area where you can actually feel that the difference of the genome is the basis for the difference in shapes and activities of the organisms. We can see from examples such as mutant morning glories and rice plants that genetic differences among organisms create diverse differences in form and behavior.

Let's Build a Virtual Insect!

It is a game that lets us have fun as it shows us how the shape of an insect's body is determined by the functions of genes.

Interviews with researchers

People interviewed (titles omitted)

• Motoya Katsuki
• Yuji Kohara
• Yoshiyuki Sakayuki
• Hirokazu Tsukaya
• Kenichi Matsubara
• Mitsuhiro Yanagida
• Masahira Hattori
• Shigeki Mitaku
• Kousaku Okubo