Polymerase chain reaction
PCR is a series of temperature-controlled reactions which enable us to amplify a very tiny sample of DNA, producing enough material for it to be analysed or used in DNA profiling.
Stem cells
Cells which can divide repeatedly without becoming differentiated and have the capacity to develop into a diverse range of specialised cell types.
Genetic engineering
Genetic engineering involves changing the DNA of an organism, usually by deleting, inserting or editing a gene to produce desired characteristics.
Biotechnology
The use of biological organisms or enzymes to create, break down or transform a material.
Unravelling the genome
Just reflect...
- on the millions of base pairs that make up the human genome
- on the efforts of scientists and technologists around the world deciphering the human genetic code
- on the potential benefits that understanding the human genome will bring - and the issues that will need to be considered.
Human genome
The complete sequence of all 20,000-25,000 human genes. That is, which chromosomes they are in and whereabouts the gene appears on that chromosome's piece of DNA.
Genetic code
Sequence of bases in a DNA molecule which codes for the sequence of amino acids in a protein. Each group of three bases, codes for an amino acid.
Knowledge of the human genome brings with it enormous power, and also great responsibilities.
Contents
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Click here to download the Unravelling the Genome poster shown below. 
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How to use this site
There are a number of interactive features in this e-source:
- A glossary of terms: any word with a glossary entry is highlighted like this. Moving the mouse over the highlighted word will show a definition of that word.
- Quick questions: at the end of most pages or sections there is a question or set of quick questions to test your understanding.
- Animations: most of the animations can be expanded to full screen size, ideal for showing on an interactive whiteboard. The animations will play all the way through or can be viewed one section at a time.
- Downloads: Teachers can download individual diagrams, animations and other content from the Download Library area of the website. Terms and Conditions apply.
Glossary
A list of often difficult or specialised words with their definitions.