In Chapter 9, you learned about genes, chromosomes and patterns of inheritance, including genotypes and phenotypes, multiple alleles, dominant and recessive genes and co-dominance.
In Chapter 10, you learned about the nature, structure and organisation of the genetic material (DNA), including Mendels’ discoveries with pea plants and the genetic code.
In Chapter 11, you learned about genes in action – replication, transcription and translation to produce the proteins that make up all living organisms.
Chapter 12 is all about the tools and techniques we use to investigate and alter the DNA of organisms – DNA profiling and paternity testing, gene transfer and genetically modified organisms. These processes are newly discovered and there is still community debate about their use. It is important to consider the ethical issues surrounding genetic technologies, as our legal system lags behind scientific knowledge and practice. For example, the recent birth of an IVF baby to a 63 year old woman has made headlines in Australia – she was treated overseas, because the procedure is against the law for women over 53 in this country.
- Part 1: Gene therapy – two sides of a coin
- Part 2: Genetic engineering of animals – artificial selection, domestic breeding
- Part 3: Ethical issues surrounding gene technologies – GMO’s, DNA testing and genetic profiling
- Part 4: Risks of gene technology