With genetics and genetic engineering receiving almost daily coverage in the media, this book is an introduction for general readers who wish to know more about a science that is changing our world. Starting with the history of genetics, from primitive breeding programmes to Mendel's Law, and moving on to a full explanation of genetics and its role in our future, this is a comprehensive survey of genetics past, present and future.
Autorentext
Burton Guttman is a Professor of Biology at The Evergreen State College, Washington, USA.
Inhalt
Preface
I.Genetics: past, present, and future
II.From Myth to Modern Science
III.What is inherited?
IV.The Breakthrough: Mendel's laws
V.Chromosomes, reproduction, and sex
VI.The function of genes
VII.The hereditary material, DNA
VIII.The genetic dissection of gene structure
IX.Deciphering the code of life
X.Heredity in the bacterial world
XI.Gene regulation and development
XII.DNA manipulation: the return of Epimetheus?
XIII.The geneticist as Dr. Frankenstein
XIV.The fountain of change: mutation
XV.Evolutionary genetics
Glossary
Notes
Further reading
Index