■■ Genetics in the twenty-first century is
built on a rich tradition of discovery and
experimentation stretching from the
ancient world through the nineteenth
century to the present day.
■■Transmission genetics is the process
by which traits controlled by genes are
transmitted through gametes from
generation to generation.
■■ Mutant strains can be used in genetic
crosses to map the location and distance
between genes on chromosomes.
■■ The Watson–Crick model of DNA
structure explains how genetic
information is stored and expressed. This
discovery is the foundation of molecular
genetics.
■■ Recombinant DNA technology
revolutionized genetics, was the
foundation for the Human Genome
Project, and has generated new fields
that combine genetics with information
technology.
■■ Biotechnology provides genetically
modified organisms and their products
that are used across a wide range of
fields including agriculture, medicine,
and industry.
■■ Model organisms used in genetics
research are now utilized in combination
with recombinant DNA technology and
genomics to study human diseases.
■■ Genetic technology is developing faster
than the policies, laws, and conventions
that govern its use.