HHMI's "Blazing a Genetic Trail": For all to read on the Web!
Yes, "Blazing a Genetic Trail" is now online! This wonderfully
illustrated book takes you on the search for mutant genes that
cause the 4,000 hereditary disorders affecting humans. The Web
version is free for all to read online at
http://www.hhmi.org/GeneticTrail/.
"Blazing a Genetic Trail," edited by HHMI's Maya Pines, shows
how scientists and families join in seeking the causes of baffling
diseases: abnormal genes. This book is written for a general
audience in magazine style, and is a great aid for anyone ranging
from junior high to university levels. Its detailed and colorful
graphics make it especially attractive.
You will read about the personal struggles of a University of
Michigan student who tried to find the genetic error that produced
his own lethal illness, cystic fibrosis; the Human Genome Project;
"How To Conquer a Genetic Disease" (a special section); the need
for animal models; and the search for new treatments. You will
also learn that "Virtually all human afflictions from cancer to
psychiatric disorders and susceptibility to infections are rooted
in our genes," and you will see how your family history could help
scientists uncover the secrets hidden in all our genes. The book
also includes a brief guide to basic genetics and a glossary of
genetic terms.
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute makes this book available
online as a public service. The Institute, whose primary purpose
is the conduct of basic biomedical research, is the largest
philanthropic organization in the United States. It also has
a complementary grants program that supports science education
at all levels. You can visit HHMI's Web site at http://www.hhmi.org.
For more information on "Blazing a Genetic Trail," contact
the HHMI Office of Communications at commpub at hhmi.org or
call (301) 215-8855.
For help with creating a link to the Web site, visit
http://drwebby.com/hhmi/how2link.html or contact
Steffanie Lynch at link2hhmi at drwebby.com
or call (804) 739-0165.
