It’s beyond science fiction:  we’ve mapped all our genes–the human genome. Through engrossing environments, interactives, artifacts, multi-media, and innovative graphics, Genome explores the nature, history of discovery, and impact of our genes.  The exhibit brings understanding of what the genome is, why it’s being “mapped,” what the amazing potential benefits of this research are–preventing and curing disease, living longer lives, etc.–and takes an intriguing look into the history of this science and the people who have shaped it–even some of the controversial issues such as cloning and origin of life.

The content of “GENOME” is organized into four sections:
1) The Secret of You
2) The Secrets of Life
3) Discovery
4) Living on the Frontier

INTERACTIVES:
Giant double helix model – An 8-foot-tall, 25-foot-long genetic model of a double helix offers a colorful visual study of the basics of DNA with video and light show.

What is DNA? – Examine a real sample of DNA.

Info with a Twist – Twist a model DNA ladder into a double helix.  A video animation illustrates the double helix in the context of a chromosome; see it unwind and rewind.

How Similar Are You? – A hands-on slide panel interactive illustrating the large percentage of genes humans share with other organisms.

Unzip/Zip – Beat the clock!  Connect bases—A and T, C and G—to both halves of the DNA puzzle to complete two new DNA ladders.

Cells, Cells, and More Cells – Turn discs to view magnified cell images from humans and other organisms.

Cell Explorer – A moveable flat video screen allows visitors to navigate a large map of a cell and discover the workings of its parts and processes.

Mutations – Choose from 4 types of mutations in the recipe instructions and discover what can happen when copying DNA.

Heredity Slots – Try your luck at the slot machines and learn how genes come together to determine your inheritance.

What does a genome look like? – Go online at the “Information Explosion” computer kiosks to take a look at the human genome, explore the genomes of other organisms, or get the latest on all the new discoveries.

Find a Gene – Choose a sample section of a gene and match the probe to search for the PKU mutation.

Be a DNA Detective – Match the DNA sample taken at the crime scene with samples from the suspect database.

Genetic Counselor – Through interactive video, confer with genetic counselors on how to identify, understand, and cope with genetic traits.

Fold A Protein/Designing Therapies – Choose the drug therapy that would grab onto the protein receptor and hold tight, blocking HIV’s access to a cell.

Special Delivery – Convert a virus into a special delivery carrying gene for gene therapy.

ENVIRONMENTS
The Cookie Factory – An animated cookie machine shows how a cookie company cranking out cookies is a lot like a cell making proteins.

Watson and Crick Model – A replica of Watson and Crick’s original 1953 double helix model set in a remake of their Cambridge lab.

Discovery Theatre – Scientists explain, in everyday terms, genetic research discoveries, their impact, and the people and stories behind them.

Living on the Frontier – A multi-media collage—print, video, updatable message boards—a composite of events and issues that surround us on the genetic frontier.

Reality Checks Theatre – Eric Lander, Ph.D., Director, Whitehead Institute/MIT Center for Genome Research, discusses genetic issues large and small, real and fanciful, as presented in the media and movies, sending visitors out of the exhibit informed, entertained, and inspired.

Corporate Sponsor: Pfizer Inc

Content Collaborators:
National Human Genome Research Institute, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services
Whitehead Institute/MIT Center for Genome Research

Genome: The Secret of How Life Works

EXHIBIT SIZE: 5,000 square feet

LENGTH OF VENUE: Approximately three months Spring, Summer, Fall

TARGET AUDIENCE: 7-year-olds and up, families, schools

COST OF VENUE: Call for information

NATIONAL SPONSOR: Pfizer Inc

SUPPORT PROVIDED: Advertising creative, marketing materialteacher’s activity guide, photographypress materials

INSURANCE: Museum must provide a certificate of insurance for $5 million (general liability) and $2 million (property damage insurance).

SHIPPING COST: Venue pays for incoming shipping costs.

INSTALLATION/DEINSTALLATION: Two Evergreen technicians will be provided to assist in set-up and take-down.  Venue is responsible for providing 4-6 qualified individuals to help set-up and take-down.

DOOR AND CEILING SIZE: Exhibit requires a 7’ X 8 opening. 10’-12’ ceiling required.

ENVIRONMENT: HVAC required.

MANUALS: Maintenance and Installation manuals will be provided with exhibit.

ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS: Standard electrical supply.

SECURITY LEVEL: Gallery attendants required.

For more information contact:
Christi Klingelhefer at 210-599-0045