Genetics For Dummies

Basics and breakthroughs, clearly explained DNA, RNA, ACGT--no wonder they call it genetic code. Genetics For Dummies helps you crack that code, explaining the basics of gene science in terms anyone can understand. You'll start at the beginning, with a crash course on genes and their expression, and then you'll graduate to genetic disorders, whole-genome sequencing, genetic engineering, and other fun stuff. Perfect as a supplement to your college genetics course and a fun read all on its own, this Dummies guide shines a light on the fascinating field of genetics. Inside...

• Basic review of cell biology
• Mendel's laws of inheritance
• Replication and transcription
• DNA-related disorders
• Genetic counseling and testing
• Ethics of genetic modification
• Recent scientific breakthroughs
• Pathways to a career in genetics

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: Mendel's 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: It's 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