• Explains the background to the first concept of the gene
• Looks at the nature of genetic variation in human populations
• Explains how DNA can be used to trace human ancestry and migration throughout history
• Considers the use of genetics in forensic science
• Discusses some of the controversial issues surrounding the use of genes in various contexts
• Part of the Very Short Introductions series - over ten million copies sold worldwide

New to this Edition:

• New edition includes new and updated topics such as the CRISPR method for targeted genetic modification of organisms, using "gene drives" to modify whole populations, discussion of the possibility to identify aspects of personal appearance from DNA samples, updated information on human ancestry using recent studies on ancient DNA, discussion of personal genetic ancestry testing, and discussion of increasingly large genome wide association studies (GWAS), and the generation of medical risk profiles from the genome
• Content on molecular biology has been reworked to improve accessibility
• Updated reading list
• Addition of a Glossary, covering all technical terms used in the book

    
In this exploration of the concept of the gene, Jonathan Slack looks at the discovery, nature, and role of genes in both evolution and development. By explaining the nature of genetic variation in the human population, how hereditary factors were identified as molecules of DNA, and how certain specific mutations can lead to disease, Slack highlights how DNA variants are used to trace human ancestry and migration, and can also be used by forensic scientists to identify individuals in crime. He also explores issues such as the role of genetic heritability and IQ as well as the changes that occur in the genes of populations during evolution.
     
An ideal guide for anyone curious about what genes are and how genetics can be put to use, this Very Short Introduction demonstrates the ways in which the gene concept has been understood and used by molecular biologists, population biologists, and social scientists around the world. This second edition has been fully updated and contains new sections on the CRISPR method for targeted genetic modification, on DNA profiling, and developments in our understanding of human ancestry using ancient DNA.