DNA Demystified: Unravelling the Double Helix -- Alan McHughen

<strong>For all those who fear they cannot understand the science of DNA -- they will soon find that they can and it's fascinating.</strong> -- Matt Ridley, author of <em>Genome: The Autobiography of a Species in 23 Chapters </em> <p/>DNA, once the exclusive domain of scientists in research labs, is now the darling of popular and social media. With personal genetic testing kits in homes and GMO foods in stores, DNA is an increasingly familiar term. Unfortunately, what people know, or think they know, about DNA and genetics is often confused or incorrect. Contrary to popular belief, for instance, genes don't skip a generation and, no, human DNA is not different from DNA of other species. With popular misconceptions proliferating in the news and on the internet, how can anyone sort fact from fiction? <p/><em>DNA Demystified</em> satisfies the public appetite for and curiosity about DNA and genetics. Alan McHughen, an accomplished academic and public science advocate, brings the reader up-to-speed on what we know, what we don't, and where genetic technologies are taking us. The book begins with the basic groundwork and a brief history of DNA and genetics. Chapters then cover newsworthy topics, including DNA fingerprinting, using DNA in forensic analyses, and identifying cold-case criminals. For readers intrigued by the proliferation of at-home DNA tests, the text includes fascinating explorations of genetic genealogy and family tree construction-crucial for people seeking their