UNDERSTANDING BIOTECHNOLOGY

Appropriate for all courses in biotechnology, and many courses in science and ethics.With each passing year, biotechnology has an increasingly profound impact on human health, agriculture, the environment, and society itself. Understanding Biotechnology offers students an introduction to biotechnology that is balanced, accurate, current, thorough, and accessible to non-specialists and professionals alike. The authors begin with a brief history of biotechnology and an introduction to the underlying principles of genetic engineering. Next, they review every key area of biotechnology research, thoroughly addressing both technical practice and its implications-especially biosafety and ethical issues. Understanding Biotechnology presents careful and complete introductions to cloning, gene therapy, pharmacogenomics, molecular markers, forensic DNA, bioremediation and biodiversity, and more-including a full chapter on the risks of bioterrorism. It also includes an extensive glossary, as well as detailed references for further study. The book assumes only a basic genetic and biological background. It will be an invaluable resource for students intending to become genetic engineers-as well as students intending to becoming lawyers, business leaders, journalists, or simply better informed citizens.