Intro to Genetics

summary

genetics = scientific study of heredity and variation

diverse field

• transmission genetics
• nature of genetic information
• population genetics
• quantitative genetics
• evolutionary and development genetics
  • can pinpoint where traits came from

genetics = is central to biology and it underlies all life processes

genetics and human affairs

• many inherited genetic diseases in humans
• cancer is caused by mutation in somatic cells
• genetis and social policy
  • IQ
  • sexual orientation
  • behaviour

Biotechnical and Genetic Engineering

• new pharmaceuticals
• new varieties of plants and animals
• genetic tests
• concerns over ethics and safety
• genetic engineering