Developing Equitable Lab Practices/Culture: A Student-Centered Activity on Alcohol Metabolism and Its Relation to the Black Community

Abstract

This lab updates the study of acetaldehyde oxidation in vitro using the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) by presenting the study in a guided inquiry approach that is culturally relevant. Acetaldehyde is a toxic compound that builds up in the liver following the consumption of alcohol, which must be metabolized. We used a spectrophotometer to follow the kinetics of this reaction, determine how substrate concentrations alter the rate of this enzymatic reaction, and screen potential enzyme inhibitors. Students are guided through questions that explore comparatively uncomplicated kinetic and thermodynamic theory that supports the reaction of enzyme catalysis. This inquiry approach was aided by three-dimensional structural models of the enzyme that were explored within the laboratory sessions, enhancing the arcane lab procedures and developing student skills in experimental design. Students can draw from their everyday life experiences based on their cultural norms and knowledge to choose experimental conditions within a provided list of options, such as the alcohol or the reaction inhibitor selection. This was accompanied by written reports and finalized by oral presentations to the class.