Books > Science & Mathematics > Biology, life sciences > Life sciences: general issues > Genetics (non-medical)
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When a Gene Makes You Smell Like a Fish - ...and Other Amazing Tales about the Genes in Your Body (Paperback, New edition)
Loot Price: R455
Discovery Miles 4 550
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When a Gene Makes You Smell Like a Fish - ...and Other Amazing Tales about the Genes in Your Body (Paperback, New edition)
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Loot Price R455
Discovery Miles 4 550
Expected to ship within 12 - 19 working days
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From the gene that causes people to age prematurely to the "bitter
gene" that may spawn broccoli haters, this book explores a few of
the more exotic locales on the human genome, highlighting some of
the tragic and bizarre ways our bodies go wrong when genes fall
prey to mutation and the curious ways in which genes have evolved
for our survival.
Lisa Seachrist Chiu has a smorgasbord of stories to tell about
rare and not so rare genetic quirks. We read about the Dracula
Gene, a mutation in zebra fish that causes blood cells to explode
on contact with light, and suites of genes that also influence
behavior and physical characteristics; the Tangier Island Gene,
first discovered after physicians discovered a boy with orange
tonsils (scientists now realize that the child's odd condition
comes from an inability to process cholesterol); and Wilson's
Disease, a gene defect that fails to clear copper from the body,
which can trigger schizophrenia and other neurological symptoms,
and can be fatal if left untreated. Friendlier mutations include
the Myostatin gene, which allows muscles to become much larger than
usual and enhances strength and the much-envied Cheeseburger Gene,
which allows a lucky few to eat virtually anything they want and
remain razor thin.
While fascinating us with stories of genetic peculiarities, Chiu
also manages to effortlessly explain much of the cutting-edge
research in modern genetics, resulting in a book that is both
informative and entertaining. It is a must read for everyone who
loves popular science or is curious about the human body.
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