The Human Genome

Significant advances in our knowledge of genetics were made during the twentieth century but in the most recent decades, genetic research has dramatically increased its impact throughout society. Genetic issues are now playing a large role in health and public policy, and new knowledge in this field will continue to have significant implications for individuals and society. Written for the non-majors human genetics course, Human Genetics, 3E will increase the genetics knowledge of students who are learning about human genetics for the first time. This thorough revision of the best-selling Human Genome,2E includes entirely new chapters on forensics, stem cell biology, bioinformatics, and societal/ethical issues associated with the field. New special features boxes make connections between human genetics and human health and disease. Carefully crafted pedagogy includes chapter-opening case studies that set the stage for each chapter; concept statements interspersed throughout the chapter that keep first-time students focused on key concepts; and end-of-chapter questions and critical thinking activities. This new edition will contribute to creating a genetically literate student population that understands basic biological research, understands elements of the personal and health implications of genetics, and participates effectively in public policy issues involving genetic information .

Includes topical material on forensics, disease studies, and the human genome project to engage non-specialist students

Full, 4-color illustration program enhances and reinforces key concepts and themes

Uniform organization of chapters includes interest boxes that focus on human health and disease, chapter-opening case studies, and concept statements to engage non-specialist readers

PART I: HOW GENES SPECIFY A TRAIT
Chapter 1: The Basics of Heredity: How Traits Are Passed Along in Families 
Chapter 2: The Double Helix: How Cells Preserve Genetic Information
PART II: HOW GENES FUNCTION
Chapter 3: The Central Dogma of Molecular Biology: How Cells Orchestrate the Use of Genetic Information
Chapter 4: The Genetic Code: How the Cell Makes Proteins from Genetic Information Encoded in mRNA Molecules
Chapter 5: We Are All Mutants: How Mutation Alters Function
PART III: HOW CHROMOSOMES MOVE
Chapter 6: Mitosis and Meiosis: How Cells Move Your Genes Around
Chapter 7: The Odd Couple: How the X and Y Chromosomes Break the Rules
PART IV: HOW GENES CONTRIBUTE TO COMPLEX TRAITS
Chapter 8: Sex Determination: How Genes Determine a Developmental Choice
Chapter 9: Complexity: How Traits Can Result from Combinations of Factors
Chapter 10: The Multiple-Hit Hypothesis: How Genes Play a Role in Cancer
PART V: HOW GENES ARE FOUND
Chapter 11: The Gene Hunt: How Genetic Maps Are Built and Used
Chapter 12: The Human Genome: How the Sequence Enables Genome-wide Studies
PART VI: HOW GENES PLAY A ROLE IN TESTING AND TREATMENT
Chapter 13: Genetic Testing and Screening: How Genotyping Can Offer Important Insights
Chapter 14: Magic Bullets: How Gene-based Therapies Personalize Medicine
Chapter 15: Fears, Faith, and Fantasies: How the Past and Present Shape the Future of Genomic Medicine