The Thread of Life: The Story of Genes and Genetic Engineering

by Susan Aldridge

• ISBN13: 9780521625098
• ISBN10: 0521625092
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1998-03-28
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

Susan Aldridge gives an accessible guide to the world of DNA and also explores the applications of genetic engineering in biotechnology. She takes the reader, step by step, through the fascinating study of molecular biology. Aldridge also looks at the wider world of biotechnology and how genetic engineering can be applied to such problems as producing vegetarian cheese or cleaning up the environment. Although easy to read, this book does not avoid the science and provides a stimulating introduction to this enigmatic part of nature.

Table of Contents

Preface

Acknowledgements

Illustration credits

Part I. What is DNA?: 1. DNA is life's blueprint

2. DNA in action

3. A close up of the genome

4. Where did DNA come from?

Part II. Engineering Genes: 5. Genetic engineering

6. Creating new life forms

7. Genes - the human angle

8. New genes for old

Part III. Biotechnology: 9. The wide world of biotechnology

10. Plant power

11. Environmental solutions

Part IV. The Final Frontier: 12. Beyond DNA

Further reading

Index.