Genetics A Molecular Perspective

Genetics: A Molecular Perspectiveis the newest addition to the series of textbooks designed to provide support to students as they study one of the most fascinating scientific disciplines. This book is designed specifically for courses that begin with DNA as the focal point, and where a solid foundation in molecular genetics is provided before proceeding with coverage of the more traditional areas of classical heredity. Certainly no subject area has had a more sustained impact than Genetics on shaping our knowledge of the living condition. As a result of discoveries over the past 50 years, we now understand with reasonable clarity the underlying genetic mechanisms that explain how organisms develop into and then function as adults. We also better understand the basis of biological diversity and have greater insight into the evolutionary process. As we edge into the new millennium, discoveries in this discipline continue to be numerous and profound. As geneticists and students of genetics, the thrill of being part of this era must be balanced by a strong sense of responsibility and careful attention to the many related issues that will undoubtedly arise. The formulation of proper laws and policies will depend on a comprehensive knowledge of genetics and measured responses to these issues. As a result, there has never been a higher premium or greater need for a useful and up-to-date genetics textbook. In addition to the "DNA-first" approach taken, the first edition ofGenetics: A Molecular Perspective,as with other texts in the series, has been designed to achieve six major goals. Specifically, we seek to: Emphasize concepts rather than excessive detail. Write clearly and directly to students in order to provide understandable explanations of complex, analytical topics. Establish a careful organization within and between chapters. Maintain constant emphasis on scientific analysis as the means to illustrate how we know what we know. Propagate the rich history of genetics that so beautifully illustrates how information is acquired and extended within the discipline as it develops and grows. Create inviting, engaging, and pedagogically useful full-color figures enhanced by equally helpful photographs to support concept development. These goals serve as the cornerstones of this new text. This pedagogic foundation allows the book to accommodate courses with varied approaches and lecture formats. While we assume that adopters of this text will initiate coverage by emphasizing DNA and molecular genetic expression, all chapters in the text are nevertheless written to be as independent of one another as possible. This allows instructors to utilize them in various sequences once the molecular foundation of genetics is firmly established. We believe that the varied approaches embodied in the goals listed above together provide students with optimal support for their study of genetics. Writing a textbook that achieves these goals has been a labor of love for us. The creation of the initial edition of this text is a reflection not only of our passion for teaching genetics, but the constructive feedback and encouragement provided over the past two decades from adopters, reviewers, and our students. Features of this Text Online Media Tutorials--Students are guided in their understanding of important concepts by working through what are simply the best animations, tutorial exercises, and self-assessment tools available. A Unique Organization--We provide a chapter sequence designed to immediately establish the importance of genetic function at the molecular level. Then, classical heredity is presented beginning with a consideration of mitosis and meiosis followed by extensive coverage of the findings of Gregor Mendel. Once solid coverage of transmission genetics is completed, we then return to the mostKlug, William S. is the author of 'Genetics A Molecular Perspective', published 2002 under ISBN 9780130085306 and ISBN 0130085308.