Museum of Science, Boston

Exhibit [Return to listing page]
Blue Wing, Lower Level

This exhibit is no longer at the Museum.

Although we have been shaping the natural world since our first appearance on Earth, we now find ourselves in the midst of a new revolution: biotechnology. Visitors to this exhibit will explore the gene and protein science that's the basis for the latest biotech innovations.

Throughout history, we have been breeding crops and animals to our advantage and harnessing microorganisms to make bread, cheese, and wine. Now, armed with an ever-growing knowledge of the processes of life, we're curing diseases, creating new drugs, and genetically modifying foods.

In this exhibit, try cracking the code of DNA, or listen to music composed according to genetic patterns. In computer-simulated lab activities, create a biotech solution such as a genetically modified tomato, or test gene therapy. Move on to "Tales of Biotech", which tracks engaging stories about targeting cancer cells and protecting the environment. Take away a further understanding of why biotechnology can lead to several tough societal questions, among them whether people should be allowed to choose the sex of their offspring, or if new life forms should be patented.