Meta Blast: Game
Meta Blast is an educational simulation game designed to teach cell biology and systems biology. The game places players in a 3D virtual environment where they navigate through the interior of a plant cell, exploring its structure and functions.
Players interact with key organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and chloroplasts to complete tasks related to biological processes. These include repairing damage, managing energy production via photosynthesis and respiration, and addressing cellular stress caused by environmental factors.
The game integrates molecular interactions and cellular systems to provide a detailed understanding of how cells operate as functional units. Supported by grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF), Meta!Blast aims to promote STEM education by offering an interactive platform for students to engage with core biological concepts.
Players are tasked with navigating inside a plant cell, interacting with key components such as:
01
Nucleus: Understanding its role in DNA storage and gene expression.
02
Mitochondria: Exploring energy production through cellular respiration.
03
Chloroplasts: Engaging in processes like photosynthesis to synthesize energy.
04
Endoplasmic Reticulum and Golgi Apparatus: Investigating protein and lipid synthesis and transport.
Missions simulate real cellular challenges, such as:
- Repairing damaged organelles.
- Managing ATP production.
- Responding to environmental stresses like pathogen attacks or nutrient deficiencies.
Meta Blast uses scientific accuracy to demonstrate complex topics such as:
- Photosynthesis and its biochemical pathways.
- Energy transfer via ATP.
- Cellular communication and signal transduction.
