From Genes to Genomes

Rapid advances in a collection of techniques referred to as gene technology, genetic engineering, recombinant DNA technology and gene cloning have pushed molecular biology to the forefront of the biological sciences. From Genes to Genomes: Concepts and Applications of DNA Technology explains key ideas underlying the most central techniques in the context of the ways in which they are used. The book opens with a brief review of the basic concepts of molecular biology, before moving on to describe the key molecular methods and how they fit together. This ranges from the cloning and study of individual genes to the sequencing of whole genomes, and the analysis of genome-wide information. Finally, the book moves on to consider some of the applications of these techniques, in biotechnology, medicine and agriculture, as well as in research that is causing the current explosion of knowledge across the biological sciences. Features: Major revision of a concise, well-written introduction to genome sequencing technologies. Excellent balance between clarity of coverage and level of detail. Includes clear, two-colour diagrams throughout. Dedicated website will include all figures. New to this Edition: Increased coverage of whole-genome sequencing technologies. Removal of less relevant historical methods. Enhanced treatment of bioinformatics.