KINGFISHER KNOWLEDGE takes readers into the heart of a subject.Stunning photographs and thought-provoking digital artwork capture the essence of each topic, while compelling text guides the reader through a wealth of information. Each chapter encourages the reader to discover more through links to websites, books and places to visit, and also suggests possible career opportunities.

 KFK Genes & DNA explores the ever-unfolding secrets of this exciting science. From the basics of genes and their function as the code for life,through variation in families and inheritance, to the wide-ranging applications of DNA technology, find out how genes and DNA work.Investigate forensics, gene therapy, cloning and genetic engineering, and enjoy a fascinating insight into the biology of the world around us.

FOREWORD

CHAPTER 1

GENES AND

INHERITANCE

Variations on a theme

Discovering genes

Gene carriers

New generations

Gene variation

Girl or boy?

Nature or nurture?

Two of a kind

Summary

CHAPTER 2

DNA: THE MOLECULE OF LIFE

Discovering DNA

The double helix

DNA at work

Changing the message

Human Genome Project

DNA, genes and evolution

Summary

CHAPTER 3

GENETIC

TECHNOLOGY

DNA fingerprinting

Tracing ancestors

Genetic engineering

Screening for diseases

Gene therapy

Perfect copies

Spare parts

Extinct and endangered

Predicting the future

Summary

Glossary

Index

Acknowledgements