Completely updated and rewritten, with 150 new figures Genomes from a wide variety of organisms included, from viruses to humans Techniques fully integrated into the text, including those investigating the genome, transcriptome, and proteome Coverage of expression, regulation, and evolution is on a genomic scale Short answer questions and in-depth problems at the end of each chapter Same structure as Genomes 3 but streamlined

Completely updated and rewritten, with 150 new figures Genomes from a wide variety of organisms included, from viruses to humans Techniques fully integrated into the text, including those investigating the genome, transcriptome, and proteome Coverage of expression, regulation, and evolution is on a genomic scale Short answer questions and in-depth problems at the end of each chapter Same structure as Genomes 3 but streamlined

Nowadays, genetics focuses on DNA. Just like the first edition, the theme of this new edition, Introduction to Genetics: A Molecular Approach, is therefore the progression from molecules (DNA and genes) to processes (gene expression and DNA replication) to systems (cells, organisms and populations). This progression reflects both the basic logic of life and the way in which modern biological research is structured. The molecular approach is particularly suitable for students for whom genetics is part of a broader program in biology, biochemistry, the biomedical sciences or biotechnology. This book presents the basic facts and concepts with enough depth of knowledge to stimulate students to move on to more advanced aspects of the subject.

This second edition has been thoroughly updated to cover new discoveries and developments in genetics from the last ten years. There are new chapters that introduce important techniques such as DNA sequencing and gene editing, and the applications of genetics in our modern world are covered in chapters describing topics as diverse as gene therapy and the use of ancient DNA to study prehistoric ecosystems.

Key Features:

This book provides a molecular approach to the study of genetics.

It is a highly accessible and well-structured book with chapters organized into four parts to aid navigation.

It presents high-quality illustrations to elucidate the various concepts and mechanisms.

Each chapter ends with a Key Concepts section, which serves to summarize the most essential points.

Self-study questions enable the reader to assess their comprehension of chapter content, and discussion topics facilitate a deeper understanding of the material by encouraging conversation and critical evaluation.

Key terms are emboldened throughout the text and are listed at the end of each chapter, and definitions can be found in the Glossary.

For instructors who adopt the book, an affiliated question bank is free to download.

Table of Contents

1. What is Genetics and Why is it So Important?

PART 1. GENES AS UNITS OF BIOLOGICAL INFORMATION

2. DNA

3. Genes

4. Transcription of DNA to RNA

5. Types of RNA Molecule: Messenger RNA

6. Types of RNA Molecule: Ribosomal and Transfer RNA

7. The Genetic Code

8. Protein Synthesis

9. Control of Gene Expression

10. DNA Replication

11. Mutation and DNA Repair

PART 2. GENES AS UNITS OF INHERITANCE

12. Inheritance of Genes during Virus Infection Cycles

13. Inheritance of Genes in Bacteria

14. Inheritance of Genes during Eukaryotic Cell Division

15. Inheritance of Genes during Eukaryotic Sexual Reproduction

16. Inheritance of Genes in Populations

PART 3. HOW GENES ARE STUDIED

17 Mapping the Positions of Genes in Chromosomes

18 Sequencing Genes and Genomes

PART 4. GENETICS IN OUR MODERN WORLD

19. Genes in Differentiation and Development

20. The Human Genome

21. Genes and Medicine

22. DNA in Forensic Genetics and Technology

23. Genes in Industry and Agriculture

24. The Ethical Issues Raised by Modern Genetics