The Thread of Life: The Story of Genes and Genetic Engineering

by Susan Aldridge

In this fascinating book, Susan Aldridge gives an accessible guide to the world of DNA and also explores the applications of genetic engineering in biotechnology. She takes the reader, step by step, through the fascinating study of molecular biology, examining DNA and its function within living organisms as well as aspects of genetic engineering and its applications to humans. Aldridge also looks at the wider world of biotechnology and how genetic engineering can be applied to such problems as producing vegetarian cheese or cleaning up the environment.

Genres: Science

272 pages, Paperback

First published March 21, 1996

Reviews

[Katia N · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read a few books about the biological basis of genetics, but this was the best for me. I've finally understood all the mechanics behind the concepts. It is a fantastic primer for anyone who are interested to understand the basics of molecular biology and genetics. The book is relatively old, so i suspect there is a lot of new information about genetic engineering and genome. But it was priceless in helping me to deal with molecular structures, replication, translation and other related processes.

I would recommend it to anyone who are interested in the biology and chemistry of genetics but never studied the subject professionally and bored with the accounts purely based on the history of the subject.

[Matthew Laird · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit out of date now, but still an enjoyable read.

[Laura Walin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Vaikea arvostella tätä kirjaa, kun nämä geeniasiat olivat keskeinen osa maisterintutkintoa ja niistä on tullut luettua ei-popularisoidussa muodossa satoja, jos ei tuhansia sivuja. Itselleni kirja toimi mukavana muistutuksena geenien rakenteesta ja toiminnasta, mutta asiaan vihkiytymättömälle olisi saattanut olla hieman liian tiivis tietopaketti. Itseäni vaivasi se, että geeni- ja bioteknologian mahdolliset eettiset ongelmat sivuutettiin hyvin kevyesti.