DNA: The Story of the Genetic Revolution

The iconic James Watson of DNA fame, with two assistants, has revised and updated his classic 2003 edition of the book with the same title. Remarkably, the reading of the details leading to the revelations of the remarkable uniqueness of this molecule and its structural potentials is user-friendly and should engross all readers. Beginning with the history of genetics from Mendel to Hitler, the chapters continue looking into the double helix itself, discuss designing genes, and talk about biotechnology and genetically-modified food. Further reading covers ethical questions regarding personal genetics, covers the race to record the human genome, talks about our African ancestors, looks at DNA identification as trial evidence, and touches on renegade genes causing diseases. Two new chapters in this volume inspect the problems and progress in ongoing cancer treatment and management, and the other peeks at the beguiling question of who we are. Does nature or nurture govern our behavior? Always a thought-provoking dilemma. The book is filled with colorful photos of family and researchers, and clear diagrams enrich the text. This is an outstanding recording of the sequence of events that began with the identification of the double helix and of the ongoing expansive repercussions that have unfolded since the initial discovery.