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Abstract: In the past two decades our knowledge of genetics has increased substantially with the advent of whole genome sequencing, a better grasp of the genetic factors that may predispose people to certain medical and psychological conditions and, most importantly in the author's estimation, the emergence of epigenetics. This article addresses the question of what our improved understanding of genetics contributes to our understanding of ourselves.
Keywords: genetics, epigenetics, transgenerational inheritance
Genetics Made Simple
We start with chromosomes. A chromosome is an organized package of DNA found in the nucleus of the cell. Different organisms have different numbers of chromosomes. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes.
It is impossible to discuss genetics without the use of scientific jargon. For this I ask your forgiveness and patience. Even if you find some of these terms daunting, please read on. You will get the gist of it. Relax! There is no exam after you have finished the lesson.
* 22 pairs of numbered chromosomes, called autosomes, and one pair of sex chromosomes, X and Y.
* Each parent contributes one chromosome to each pair so that offspring get half of their chromosomes from their mother and half from their father.
Chromosomes are found in the nucleus of each cell. They are made of DNA strands. Sections of chromosomes are called genes and code for protein, that is, everything in our bodies from the neurons in our brain down to the nails on our toes. In order to produce protein, DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) needs to be "transcribed" into RNA (ribonucleic acid). RNA gets "translated" into protein.
DNA Sequencing is the process by which the exact order of the 3 billion chemical building blocks called bases is determined. They are
* adenine (A)
* thymine (T)
* cytosine (C)
* guanine (G)
The Human Genome contains an estimated 25,000-35,000 genes as well as the regions (switches) controlling them. A genome is the complete set of DNA in a cell. DNA carries the instructions for building all of the proteins that make each living creature unique. The 25,000 - 35,000 genes make up only 5% of the entire genome. The rest consists of switches. Referring to the Human Genome: it is like you have a 100 page book,...