The Human Genome: A User's Guide

The Human Genome: A User's Guide provides a concise discussion of contemporary and relevant topics in human genetics. It begins coverage of the fundamental concepts of genetics and heredity, then illustrates these concepts as they relate to the development of human sexual differentiation and sexuality. The book describes the role of the X and Y chromosomes, the role of hormone-controlled differential gene expression in sex determination, and the role of genetics in sexual orientation and sex-role development. The Human Genome discusses the interface between science and society, covering the basic intellectual processes that underlie genetic analysis and gene therapy. It also looks at the use of cloning techniques to search for genes responsible for such human disease states as cystic fibrosis, cancer, AIDS, and mental illness. Written in an inviting and engaging style, The Human Genome meets the interests and answers the questions of today's students. Key Features: * Offers a concise discussion of contemporary human genetics and relevant topics * Accessible to the reader with no formal science background * Reviews the fundamental principles that underlie genetic analysis, prenatal diagnosis, and gene therapy * Makes use of the most up-to-date information on the genetic aspects of AIDS, sexual orientation, and gender research * Includes a controversial discussion of gene therapy and the "old" and "new" eugenics * Presents stories of real and fictional people, bringing the concepts of human inheritance "to life" * Appropriate as supplemental or recommended reading for courses on human genetics and reproductive biology for majors as well as on genetics for non-majors or sexuality and human development for psychology students

R. Scott Hawley is an Investigator at the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, Missouri, and a Professor of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. Julia E. Richards is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and in the Department of Epidemiology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She teaches introductory genetics to graduate students in the university's School of Public Health.