ISOLATION AND AMPLIFICATION OF HEMOGLOBIN GENE SEQUENCES. Kisha Vanterpool, Ayanna S. Flemmings, Marc Alston, and Lisa Williams, Marc Alston, and Lisa Williams; and mentor, Dr. Matthew George, Department of Biochemistry In an attempt to complement the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) gene studies by using hair and 200-year-old bone samples, we have also begun studies to analyze nuclear genes (hemoglobin, Hb) from the same sources. The B-globin gene cluster was chosen for this project. The B-globin gene cluster is composed of approximately 60,000 base pairs (60 kb) of DNA. The B-globin genes also exhibit polymorphisms (haplotypes) when digested with specific restriction enzymes. These haplotypes have also been highly associated with specific geographical regions of the world. We were intrested in those having African haplotye. Using the same techniques used to analyze mtDNA sequences (DNA extraction by the silica/guanidium isothiocyanate method, PCR amplification, and gel electrophoresis), we used bone and hair samples to examine the B-globin gene cluster. With DNA primers used in the PCR, designed specifically for the B-globin gene cluster, we hope to isloate a 655 base pair fragment from hair samples and a 781 base pari fragment from the bone samples.			Kisha Vanterpool is a senior majoring in chemistry and minoring in natural sciences. Vanterpool's goals is to earn a Ph.D. in chemistry, with a specialty in medicinal chemistry. In describing her intrest in chemistry, she says she is constantly challanged. She has been described as "strongly motivated with strong intellectual abilities and resourcefulness." Orignally from New York City, her volunteer work at Harlem Hospital was an experience that expose her to the "knowledge of the forum in which chemists' works is put into practical use... opening [her] eyes to many possibilities." McNair Alumni