Molecular methodologies are crucial to our understanding of human population diversity, as well as our evolutionary relationships with nonhuman primates. The completion of the Human Genome Project has given researchers a complete human reference sequence of genes. Combined with very important advances in sequencing and bioinformatics technologies, genetic research projects are now of a multidisciplinary nature. Anthropologists have the tools to seek information related to questions concerning the origin of the human species. Genomics in Biological Anthropology: New Challenges, New Opportunities explores the impact of new advances in molecular methods, such as DNA sequencing, amplification and analysis on our knowledge about the genetics of prehistoric and existing humans. Topics covered in this volume include an overview of genomic projects, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis, ancient DNA, mutation rates in chromosome Y, genomics of isolated populations, complex phenotypes and forensic anthropology. This volume is a concise primer for students and general readers learning the basics about human genetics, human evolution and biological anthropology

Introduction to Molecular Genomics introduces the college student to the fundamental concepts of molecular biology and genomics. The text puts an emphasis on important topics in the subject that contribute to the learner’s understanding. These topics include molecular genomics, biodiversity and molecular phenomenon behind evolution of species, modern molecular methods for enhanced genomics research, DNA modifications at the molecular level for transgenic animal species, the role of cell environment on the gene expression, to name a few. The book has been designed to suit the requirements of educational courses in molecular biology, genomics and biochemistry. <p> Key features <p> - Covers basic concepts on key topics in molecular biology and genomics <p> - Simple easy-to-read layout <p> - Includes references for further reading <p> - Includes a section on ethical aspects of scientific research <p> Introduction to Molecular Genomics is a simple primer for students in applied or advanced life science courses at undergraduate levels

Nucleic acid sequencing techniques have enabled researchers to determine the exact order of base pairs - and by extension, the information present - in the genome of living organisms. Consequently, our understanding of this information and its link to genetic expression at molecular and cellular levels has lead to rapid advances in biology, genetics, biotechnology and medicine. Next-Generation Sequencing and Sequence Data Analysis is a brief primer on DNA sequencing techniques and methods used to analyze sequence data. Readers will learn about recent concepts and methods in genomics such as sequence library preparation, cluster generation for PCR technologies, PED sequencing, genome assembly, exome sequencing, transcriptomics and more. This book serves as a textbook for students undertaking courses in bioinformatics and laboratory methods in applied biology. General readers interested in learning about DNA sequencing techniques may also benefit from the simple format of information presented in the book.

Sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT) represents a novel set of technologies for animal (or in the future, human) genetic modification using the sperm as a vector, as opposed to more traditional established routes such as fertilized eggs or embryonic stem cells. Studies of sperm-mediated gene transfer (SMGT) indicate that sperm cells possess the ability to be utilized as carriers of exogenous genetic sequences, offering the potential of a novel cost-effective route for germline genetic modification. The fate of transgenes borne by sperm cells has been inconsistent, and analysis of offspring from SMGT experiments has shown a mixed picture in terms of genomic integration of the transgene, suggesting an episomal mode of inheritance. Various distinct steps in transgene uptake by the sperm cell have been described or proposed, including a model based upon endogenous reverse transcriptase activity. Although mature sperm cells are naturally protected against uptake of foreign nucleic acid molecules, certain environmental conditions, for example at key times within the reproductive tract, may reduce this protection, suggesting that SMGT may occasionally take place in nature. If correct, this carries profound implications for evolution and human genetic health. This e-book brings together theoretical and empirical reviews from experts in SMGT, providing comprehensive coverage of the major trends, developments and controversies in this novel field. This e-book is intended as a reference for professional researchers in the field of animal genetic modification (transgenesis) as well as teachers, scientists and physicians interested in medical genetics in general and gene therapy in particular.

A major goal of integrative research is understanding regulatory networks to such an extent as to allow researchers to model developmental and stress responses. Regulatory networks of living systems include complex and vast interactions between proteins, metabolites, RNA, various signaling molecules and DNA. One aspect of systems biology is understanding the dynamics of protein-DNA interactions affecting gene expression that are caused by transcription factors (TFs) and chromatin remodeling factors. This e-book provides a resource for summarizing current knowledge eukaryotic transcription and explores cis-elements and methods for their analysis, prediction and discovery. The book also presents an overview of exploring gene regulatory networks, chromatin, and miRNAs. Information about state-of-the-art techniques for the determination of TF - cis-element interactions in vivo and in silico give cutting edge insights on how genomic-scale research is being approached. The Analysis of Regulatory DNA provides readers with both the necessary background knowledge and provocative, up-to-date insights aimed at sparking new and vibrant experimental designs for understanding and predicting cis-elements in the eukaryotic genome.