2nd Edition

Introduction to Genetics A Molecular Approach

By Terry A. Brown Copyright 2025
    574 Pages 666 Color & 19 B/W Illustrations
    by Garland Science

    574 Pages 666 Color & 19 B/W Illustrations
    by Garland Science

    Genetics today is focused on DNA. Just like the first edition, the theme of this new edition of 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. Introduction to Genetics 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 a 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:

    ·       Provides a molecular approach to the study of genetics

    ·       Highly accessible and well-structured book with chapters organized into four parts to aid navigation

    ·       High-quality illustrations help 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 deeper understanding of the material by encouraging conversation and critical evaluation

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

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

    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

    Biography

    Terry Brown is Emeritus Professor of Biomolecular Archaeology at the University of Manchester. He has extensive experience teaching genetics and is the author of Genomes, Fifth Edition, among other textbooks.