Genetics Revolution: History, Fears, and Future of a Life-Altering Science »

ROSE M. MORGAN, Ph.D., is Professor Emerita of Biology at Minot State University. She has published over 50 articles in refereed national and international scientific journals, as well as several other books. She is listed in Who's Who in Science and Engineering, Who's Who in Medicine and Healthcare, and Who's Who in America. Currently, she is an independent scholar.

To consider the future of genetic research, Morgan (biology, Minot State U., emerita) clarifies its history and examines five major research areas: the Human Genome Project and genetic engineering; in vitro fertilization and the technology of reproduction; the Human Genome Diversity Project; embryonic stem-cell research; and cloning. She also examines the scientific, social and political impacts of genetics on everyday life. The text is aimed at high school students. Annotation © 2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

VOYA

This reference book explores the stories behind the headlines on five topics: the Human Genome Project, in-vitro fertilization, the Human Genome Diversity Project, embryonic stem-cell research, and cloning. A detailed recounting of the activities of scientists and research laboratories, governmental reviews, and responses of the public on these topics is the primary focus of this book. In contrast to The Ethics of Biotechnology (Chelsea House, 2006/VOYA August 2006), there are no illustrations, diagrams, or definitions to assist the reader with understanding the science behind this new technology. In fact, unless a student has a comfortable grasp of advanced biology, much information will be elusive. The chapter on recombining DNA molecules includes the rDNA controversy, with sections on the Gordon Research Conference and the Asilomar Conference II, but no detailed explanation of the process itself. The one topic that will probably be the most useful for high school students is the recounting of the problems involved with the Human Genome Diversity Project. It is a topic in which the available information is sparse, but one that primarily involves sociology and anthropology and is meaningful without an understanding of DNA sequencing. Generally this book will be very limited in usefulness, even for high school seniors.