Molecular Genetics and Selective Breeding

Definition: Involves identifying specific genes associated with observable characteristics and devising ways to manipulate genes using technology.
Applications: Used to modify crops for increased resistance to harsh climate conditions. In humans, it forms the basis for treatments involving editing, replacing, or disrupting genes responsible for diseases.
Research Focus: Discover specific locations on genes determining disease susceptibility and health aspects, and develop methods to alter these genes.
Example: Victoria Gray's sickle cell disease, affecting 1 in 365 African Americans, was functionally cured in 2019 using CRISPR-edited genes.

Definition: A genetic method where organisms are chosen for reproduction based on the display of a particular trait.
Origin: Developed by Mendel in pea plant studies.
Behavioral Study Example (Tryon, 1940):
- Studied maze-running ability in rats.
- Mated