"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.
