Understanding Genetics: DNA, Genes, and Their Real-World Applications

Course Overview

Explore the revolutionary science of genetics with award-winning biologist Professor David Sadava. This 24-lecture course covers DNA’s structure, gene expression, biotechnology, and cutting-edge applications in medicine, forensics, and agriculture.

Course No. 1533 | 24 In-Depth Lectures

Video Lessons

1. Our Inheritance (31 min)
   • History of genetics and foundational biological principles

2. Mendel and Genes (30 min)
   • Gregor Mendel’s pea-plant experiments and modern genetics

3. Genes and Chromosomes (30 min)
   • Cell biology: Nucleus, chromosomes, and gene locations

4. The Search for the Gene-DNA (30 min)
   • How DNA was identified as genetic material

5. DNA Structure and Replication (31 min)
   • Watson and Crick’s double helix discovery

• DNA Expression in Proteins (29 min)
  • Protein synthesis and essential amino acids

7. Genes, Enzymes, and Metabolism (29 min)
   • How genes regulate biochemical pathways

8. From DNA to Protein (30 min)
   • Gene expression and toxins like ricin

9. Genomes (31 min)
   • Human Genome Project and its origins

10. Manipulating Genes: Recombinant DNA (31 min)
    • DNA splicing and biotechnology breakthroughs

• Isolating Genes and DNA (30 min)
  • Reverse genetics and disease research (e.g., muscular dystrophy)

• Biotechnology: Genetic Engineering (30 min)
  • Synthetic insulin production

13. Biotechnology and the Environment (30 min)
    • Engineered organisms for pollution cleanup

• Manipulating DNA by PCR (30 min)
  • Fossil DNA extraction (e.g., Jurassic Park science)

15. DNA in Identification: Forensics (30 min)
    • Crime-solving and disaster victim identification

16. DNA and Evolution (32 min)
    • Genetic evidence for Darwin’s theories

• DNA and Human Evolution (31 min)
  • Sickle cell disease and malaria resistance

• Molecular Medicine: Genetic Screening (31 min)
  • Detecting disease-causing genes

19. Molecular Medicine: The Immune System (29 min)
    • Smallpox inoculation history and antibodies

20. Molecular Medicine: Cancer (30 min)
    • Genetic basis of cancer and treatments

21. Molecular Medicine: Gene Therapy (31 min)
    • Experimental DNA-based treatments

22. Cloning and Stem Cells (31 min)
    • Science and ethics of regenerative medicine

23. Genetics and Agriculture (30 min)
    • Crop yield improvements through genetics

24. Biotechnology and Agriculture (31 min)
    • GMOs: Benefits and controversies