The science of molecular genetics has
revolutionized the way in which we live our lives. A wide variety of applications
have been developed over the last half century since Watson and Crick first
proposed that DNA, the genetic material of all organisms, is a double helix.
For example, molecular cloning techniques developed during the 1970s allow
researchers to produce many copies of specific genes and study the functions
of each. This is especially useful when studying genetically inherited
diseases such as cancer, and also has led to the birth of biotechnology. The
polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, is another method by which a very large
number of copies of a particular DNA sequence may be produced. PCR
amplification of DNA can be accomplished without the use of cloning, and has
had not only a great impact on molecular genetics, but also on medicine,
diagnostics, and even forensics. DNA fingerprinting is a useful aid for
determining probability of guilt among criminal suspects. Since each person’s
DNA produces a unique pattern when cut into fragments during the genetic
fingerprinting process, and identification by this method is highly reliable.
Genetic enhancement is an application of molecular genetics that aims to
create larger and better plants and animals for human use and consumption.
Another relatively new use of molecular genetics is that of animal cloning.
Through this process it is now possible to create replicas of animals such as
sheep by artificial laboratory methods. These new techniques of molecular
genetics advance the frontiers of science but may also open many ethical
debates. It is important as a student to understand how the field can impact
society and help to steer a course for the benefit of mankind.
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