Figure 2 Our Team Members

Education Audience

Children aged 6-8 from Tianlin Community; a total of 9 children and 9 parents participated.

Activity Process

At our community science event, we provided a comprehensive overview of Antimicrobial Peptides (AMPs) and their relationship with human health. We began by introducing what AMPs are and explaining the complex relationships between AMPs, antibiotics, and bacteria. With the growing severity of antibiotic resistance, understanding the mechanisms and advantages of AMPs became particularly important—they effectively combat bacteria in multiple ways and are less likely to induce resistance. We also explored the structural characteristics of AMPs from the perspective of their microscopic forms and material composition.

Additionally, the event covered how maintaining personal hygiene, engaging in regular exercise, and having a balanced diet can improve immunity, thereby helping the body better utilize the natural antibacterial properties of AMPs. We also took a dialectical view of bacteria: on one hand, some bacteria can cause illness and invade the human body; on the other hand, many bacteria are beneficial and essential for maintaining a healthy microecological balance.

Through this outreach event, we aimed to help everyone develop a scientific understanding of health, appreciate the role of AMPs, and actively engage in disease prevention.

Figure 3 Photos of Community Education

Feedback

Figure 4 Interacted with Children

The children were very satisfied with the activity. The Q&A session inspired their curiosity and critical thinking. Through the interactive biology questions, they developed their own understanding of biology and gained a clearer concept of antimicrobial peptides. They learned about the microscopic structure of AMPs and improved their hands-on skills in the clay modeling activity. The event also helped them better understand synthetic biology.

Reflection

Figure 5 The certificates We Awarded to the Children

During this activity, we conducted science outreach for the children, preparing many interactive questions and mini-games related to biology and AMPs to spark their interest in biology. The children’s enthusiasm for the biological world far exceeded our expectations—they were not just passive learners, but actively asked "why" and explored further. At such a young age, they learned about topics like how Ebola virus spreads, which deeply showed us the impact of science outreach on kids. It made us realize our responsibility to share biological and medical knowledge with the public. We hope to maintain this passion for biology in the future and continue to share more professional knowledge with even more people.

Figure 6 Our Members with John Cumbers and His kids

Education Audience

Zhenzhen (age 13, female), Kai (age 11, male), John Cumbers

Activity Process

At our community science outreach event, we began by introducing the crucial role, significance, and structural forms of DNA within living organisms, and explained the basic principles of DNA extraction. We then instructed participants on how to use key laboratory instruments, including micropipettes, water baths, and rubber-tipped droppers. During the hands-on session, everyone started by gently scraping oral epithelial cells with their teeth, then rinsed their mouths with 3ml of drinking water and spat the water into a 15ml centrifuge tube. Next, 2ml of room-temperature lysis buffer was added to the tube, which was inverted five times for mixing. We also prepared a mixture by dissolving 1g of NaCl powder in distilled water and adding 0.01g of proteinase K to it; 1μl of this mixture was added to the sample tube, which was then inverted ten times. The tube was placed in a 50°C water bath for 10 minutes, removed and immediately placed on ice for one minute. Finally, the tube was filled with pre-chilled 95% ethanol, sealed, and repeatedly inverted until white precipitate (DNA) appeared. Using a dropper, the white DNA precipitate was transferred into a bracelet, and participants could optionally stain it with copper sulfate for color—everyone successfully made their very own DNA bracelet.

Figure 7 Our Activities in the Lab

Feedback

Zhenzhen found the final appearance of the extracted DNA very interesting. She also enjoyed using the water bath and micropipette. Kai asked questions about the process involving proteinase K, as he was curious about its role. Both students were intrigued by experimental principles they hadn’t encountered before and gained new insights into synthetic biology. They both found the activity engaging and enthusiastically tried out unfamiliar laboratory tools. During the bracelet-making step, they speculated about differences in the appearance of the DNA and independently made adjustments to improve their extraction.

In a follow-up discussion, Zhenzhen and Kai shared their reflections with John. Zhenzhen even took the initiative to ask John about the definition of peptide chains and gained a clear understanding.

To expand the impact of our iGEM project and engage with a wider audience, our team has launched an official Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book) account. Through this platform, we aim to share our scientific journey, introduce the basics of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), and promote synthetic biology in a fun and accessible way. Our posts include educational articles, hands-on experiment guides, event updates, and reflections from our team members. By leveraging social media, we hope to reach students, teachers, and the general public, sparking curiosity about biotechnology and raising awareness about the importance of AMPs in addressing antibiotic resistance. We also use this channel to interact with our followers, answer questions, and encourage more people to participate in science outreach activities. Follow us on Xiaohongshu to stay updated with our latest EDU content and join us in exploring the exciting world of synthetic biology!

Figure 8 Our Rednote Account

Click the link to have a try: https://genuine-sunshine-21f6c5.netlify.app/

We created an interactive game inspired by popular fruit-slicing games, where players use antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) to eliminate harmful bacteria and viruses in a hospital setting. The goal is to help players understand how AMPs work as “biological defenders”, targeting dangerous microbes while keeping the environment safe. Through engaging gameplay and cute visuals, players can learn about the importance of AMPs in fighting infections and the role of synthetic biology in developing new solutions for antibiotic resistance. Our game combines fun and education, making science accessible and exciting for everyone!

Figure 9 Game Interface

Figure 10 Our Roll-up Banner Design (Chinese and English version.)

Figure 11 Story introducing AMPs

Figure 12 Our Comic

To help more people understand antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and their importance, our team created a comprehensive publicity booklet. The booklet explains the basic concepts of AMPs, their role in fighting bacteria, and why they are considered promising alternatives to traditional antibiotics. Through simple language, engaging illustrations, and real-life examples, we make complex scientific knowledge accessible to readers of all backgrounds. The booklet also introduces the challenges of antibiotic resistance and the potential of synthetic biology to provide new solutions. By distributing this booklet in communities and at public events, we aim to raise awareness about AMPs and inspire more people to care about the future of health and biotechnology.

Click on the link below to read the English version: Handbook (English ver.)

Figure 13 The elderly Reading our Handbook

To promote our project and raise awareness about synthetic biology, we designed a variety of creative peripheral products, including stickers, canvas tote bags, and badges. Each item features our team logo and cute original illustrations related to AMPs, biology, and DNA, making science approachable and fun. By distributing these products to people of all ages at events, workshops, and school activities, we are able to spread knowledge about antimicrobial peptides and synthetic biology to a wider audience. Our merchandise not only serves as a memorable keepsake but also acts as a conversation starter, encouraging more people to learn about and engage with the world of biotechnology.

Figure 14 Badge

Figure 15 Canvas Bag

Figure 16 Sticker