Evolve your knowledge of the fast-moving world of genetic research
Genetics For Dummies shines a light on the fascinating field of genetics, helping you gain a greater understanding of how genetics factors into everyday life. Perfect as a supplement to a genetics course or as an intro for the curious, this book is packed with easy-to-understand explanations of the key concepts, including an overview of cell biology. You’ll also find tons of coverage of recent discoveries in the field, plus info on how genetics can affect your health and wellbeing. Whole-genome sequencing, genetic disease treatments, exploring your ancestry, non-invasive prenatal testing—it’s all here, in the friendly and relatable Dummies style you love.
- Grasp the basics of cell biology and get a primer on the field of genetic research
- Discover what you can learn about yourself, thanks to advances in genetic testing
- Learn how your genes influence your health and wellbeing, today and as you age
- Follow along with your college-level genetics course—or refresh your knowledge—with clear explanations of complex ideas
Genetics For Dummies is great for students of the biological sciences, and for the genetically curious everywhere.
Introduction 1
Part 1: The Lowdown on Genetics: Just the Basics 5
Chapter 1: Welcome to Genetics: Just About Everyone Loves a Good Pair of
Genes 7
Chapter 2: Basic Cell Biology. 13
Chapter 3: Visualize Peas: Discovering the Laws of Inheritance 35
Chapter 4: Law Enforcement: Mendels Laws Applied to Complex Traits. 55
Part 2: DNA: The Genetic Material 73
Chapter 5: DNA: The Pattern for Life 75
Chapter 6: Chromosomes: The Big Picture 91
Chapter 7: Replication: A Copy Machine for DNA 105
Chapter 8: Transcription: Getting Instructions from DNA 125
Chapter 9: Translating the Genetic Code 141
Chapter 10: Gene Expression: Finding the Right Tool for the Job 157
Part 3: Genetics and Your Health 173
Chapter 11: What Could Go Wrong: Changes in DNA Sequence 175
Chapter 12: Chromosome Disorders: Its All a Numbers Game 193
Chapter 13: Taking a Closer Look at the Genetics of Cancer 211
Chapter 14: Genetic Counseling, Risk Assessment, and Genetic Testing 229
Chapter 15: Treating Genetic Disorders and Using Genetics to Tailor
Treatment 249
Part 4: Genetics and Your World 263
Chapter 16: Tracing Human History and the Future of Populations 265
Chapter 17: Solving Mysteries Using DNA 283
Chapter 18: DNA Sequencing: Decoding the Genome 305
Chapter 19: Genetic Makeovers: Using Genetic Engineering to Change the
Genome 319
Chapter 20: Giving Ethical Considerations Their Due 339
Part 5: The Part of Tens 353
Chapter 21: Ten Hot Issues in Genetics 355
Chapter 22: Ten Pathways to a Career in Genetics 365
Index 371
René Fester Kratz, PhD, teaches cell biology and microbiology at Everett Community College. Kratz is the author of Molecular & Cell Biology For Dummies, Biology For Dummies, and Biology Essentials For Dummies.
Lisa J. Spock, PhD, CGC, is a clinical genomics specialist. Previously, she was a genetic counselor at Indiana University School of Medicine.
