1st Edition

Introduction to Genetics: A Molecular Approach

By T A Brown Copyright 2012
    552 Pages 656 Color Illustrations
    by Garland Science

    Genetics today is inexorably focused on DNA. The theme of Introduction to Genetics: A Molecular Approach is therefore the progression from molecules (DNA and genes) to processes (gene expression and DNA replication) to systems (cells, organisms and populations). This progression reflects both the basic logic of life and the way in which modern biological research is structured. The molecular approach is particularly suitable for the large number of students for whom genetics is a part of a broader program in biology, biochemistry, the biomedical sciences, and biotechnology.

    Introduction to Genetics presents the basic facts and concepts with enough depth of knowledge to stimulate students to move on to more advanced aspects of the subject. The book is divided into three parts. Part 1 examines the function of the gene as a unit of biological information. Part 2 studies the role of the gene as a unit of inheritance. And Part 3 explores some of the areas of research that are responsible for the high profile that genetics has in our modern world, from agriculture and industry to medicine and forensics, and the ethical challenges that genetic knowledge imparts.

    Introduction to Genetics is available for purchase as an e-book in its entirety or as individual chapters, and as a 1-year or 6-month rental.

    1. The Scope of Modern Genetics

    PART 1. GENES AS UNITS OF BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION
    2. DNA
    3. Genes
    4. Transcription of DNA to RNA
    5. Types of RNA Molecule: Messenger RNA
    6. Types of RNA Molecule: Noncoding RNA
    7. The Genetic Code
    8. Protein Synthesis
    9. Control of Gene Expression

    PART 2. GENES AS UNITS OF INHERITANCE
    10. DNA Replication
    11. Inheritance of Genes during Eukaryotic Cell Division
    12. Inheritance of Genes in Bacteria
    13. Inheritance of Genes during Virus Infection Cycles
    14. Inheritance of DNA Molecules during Eukaryotic Sexual Reproduction
    15. Inheritance of Genes during Eukaryotic Sexual Reproduction
    16. Mutation and DNA Repair
    17. Inheritance of Genes in Populations

    PART 3. GENETICS IN OUR MODERN WORLD
    18. Genes in Differentiation and Development
    19. The Human Genome
    20. Genes and Medicine
    21. DNA in Forensics and Studies of Human History
    22. Genes in Industry and Agriculture
    23. The Ethical Issues Raised by Modern Genetics

    Biography

    T A Brown