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The Gene
March 2021: Other Books
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The Gene by Siddhartha Mukherjee - 4 stars
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I loved his book on cancer, and have had this on my TBR for some time. I really need to get to it!
annapi wrote: "I loved his book on cancer, and have had this on my TBR for some time. I really need to get to it!"I have not read his book about cancer, but if you like books about science, you will likely enjoy this one.
This book is for those interested in the science and history of genetics. The history portions are rather broad brush, but cover the appropriate basics, going back to Mendel and Darwin, and coming forward to the mapping of the human genome. The science portions form the core of the book. The science is rigorous and detailed. Mukherjee explores the rapid expansion in knowledge of genetic science, ethical implications, some of the ways these discoveries have been misused, and his personal family history of mental illness.
This book is timely. The techniques described in this book are being used to create COVID-19 vaccines (though the book itself pre-dates the current pandemic), including messenger RNA. I wanted to read it to understand further the science behind these genetic advances.
Mukherjee provides examples of where genetic science has gone awry in the past, such as in the misguided eugenics movement. The author also highlights success stories, and the encouraging results from trials in the use of gene therapy to assist those suffering from specific medical conditions.
It is a good discussion starter. It provides much food for thought. Since biotechnology has become part of the medical landscape, I think it is a good idea to be informed.