by Alan McHughen (Author)
"For all those who fear they cannot understand the science of DNA -- they will soon find that they can and it's fascinating." -- Matt Ridley, author of Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters
DNA,
once the exclusive domain of scientists in research labs, is now the
darling of popular and social media. With personal genetic testing kits
in homes and GMO foods in stores, DNA is an increasingly familiar term.
Unfortunately, what people know, or think they know, about DNA and
genetics is often confused or incorrect. Contrary to popular belief, for
instance, genes don't "skip a generation" and, no, human DNA is not
"different" from DNA of other species. With popular misconceptions
proliferating in the news and on the internet, how can anyone sort fact
from fiction?
DNA Demystified satisfies the public
appetite for and curiosity about DNA and genetics. Alan McHughen, an
accomplished academic and public science advocate, brings the reader
up-to-speed on what we know, what we don't, and where genetic
technologies are taking us. The book begins with the basic groundwork
and a brief history of DNA and genetics. Chapters then cover newsworthy
topics, including DNA fingerprinting, using DNA in forensic analyses,
and identifying cold-case criminals. For readers intrigued by the
proliferation of at-home DNA tests, the text includes fascinating
explorations of genetic genealogy and family tree construction-crucial
for people seeking their biological ancestry. Other chapters describe
genetic engineering in medicine and pharmaceuticals, and the use of
those same technologies in creating the far more controversial GMOs in
food and agriculture. Throughout, the book raises provocative ethical
and privacy issues arising from DNA and genetic technologies.
With the author's comprehensive expertise, DNA Demystified offers an informal yet authoritative guide to the genetic marvel of DNA.
