The Basics and Beyond

The Basics and Beyond

The basics...

Tour of the Basics Tour of the Basics
Are you a little confused by all the talk about DNA and genes? Try our animated tour!

Inside a Cell Inside a Cell
See the components that make up the cells of living things.


From DNA to protein...

Build a DNA molecule Build a DNA molecule
You've heard about the DNA code letters AGCT, but how do they comprise a DNA molecule? Find out by building one yourself.

Transcribe and Translate a Gene Transcribe and Translate a Gene
See how cells "read" the information in a DNA sequence to build a protein, then build one yourself!

Discover How Proteins Function Discover How Proteins Function
Find out how scientists investigate protein function by analyzing gene sequences.


And beyond...

PTC: The Genetics of Bitter Taste PTC: The Genetics of Bitter Taste
The genetics of bitter taste has given us some important clues about human evolution.

Molecular Genealogy Molecular Genealogy
Find out how people are using DNA to learn about their ancestry.

What Makes a Firefly Glow? What Makes a Firefly Glow?
An animated example of transcription and translation.

Conservation Genetics Conservation Genetics
Using genetics to save endangered species.

Genes and Blood Type Genes and Blood Type
The role of genes in blood, blood types, and blood transfusions.

Genes Determine Body Patterns Genes Determine Body Patterns
How and why certain genes control how an arm becomes an arm and leg becomes a leg.

Mystery of the Stolen Artifacts Mystery of the Stolen Artifacts
Examine DNA evidence to solve a mystery.

Bringing RNA Into View Bringing RNA Into View
Explore RNA's roles as an information molecule and biological catalyst. This unit contains an online introduction and detailed PDF monograph.

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