Genes: A Very Short Introduction

Description

Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring In this exploration of the concept of the gene, Jonathan Slack looks at the discovery, nature, and role of genes in both evolution and development. By explaining the nature of genetic variation in the human population, how hereditary factors were identified as molecules of DNA, and how certain specific mutations can lead to disease, Slack highlights how DNA variants are used to trace human ancestry and migration, and can also be used by forensic scientists to identify individuals in crime. He also explores issues such as the role of genetic heritability and IQ as well as the changes that occur in the genes of populations during evolution. An ideal guide for anyone curious about what genes are and how genetics can be put to use, this Very Short Introduction demonstrates the ways in which the gene concept has been understood and used by molecular biologists, population biologists, and social scientists around the world. This second edition has been fully updated and contains new sections on the CRISPR method for targeted genetic modification, on DNA profiling, and developments in our understanding of human ancestry using ancient DNA. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable. Cover Genes: A Very Short Introduction Copyright Comments on the first edition Contents Preface List of illustrations Chapter 1: Genes before 1944 Biology of heredity The 20th century DNA The chemical nature of the gene Chapter 2: Genes as DNA The double helix What is a gene? DNA during cell division Genomics How genes make animals DNA methylation Implications of understanding development The human genome Genetic modification Chapter 3: Mutations and gene variants Mutations Gene variants in populations Cystic fibrosis Haemophilia Achondroplasia Features of genetic disease Genetic predisposition and cancer More complex genetic variation Chapter 4: Genes as markers Forensic identification Forensic phenotyping Ancestry and migration Mitochondrial DNA Y chromosome Geographical history of humanity Race Genetic ancestry testing Ancient DNA Meet the Denisovans Chapter 5: Genes of small effect Heritability Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) Human height Mental illness The ‘gay gene’ IQ Group differences in IQ Prediction of risks or qualities from DNA Chapter 6: Genes in evolution Neutral evolution Classification of organisms Implications of natural selection Problematic types of selection Sex Altruism Universal characters ascribed to ‘genes’ Conclusion: the varied concepts of the gene Glossary Further reading Index Forensic Science: A Very Short Introduction Autism: A Very Short Introduction Cancer: A Very Short Introduction The History of Medicine: A Very Short Introduction Science and Religion: A Very Short Introduction Scientific Revolution: A Very Short Introduction EPIDEMIOLOGY: A Very Short Introduction Relativity: A Very Short Introduction The Laws of Thermodynamics: A Very Short Introduction