Biotechnology Demystified [Paperback]

Sharon Walker (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0071448128 | ISBN-13: 978-0071448123 | Publication Date: August 28, 2006 | Edition: 1

This self-teaching guide explains the basic concepts and fundamentals in all the major subtopics of biotechnology. The content advances logically from the basics of molecular and cellular biology to more complex topics such as DNA, reproductive cloning, experimental procedures, infectious diseases, immunology, the Human Genome Project, new drug discoveries, and genetic disorders.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

DISCOVER all the RED-HOT areas of biotechnology!

Encompassing everything from promising new drug therapies and experimental treatment of genetic disorders to potential pandemics and bioterrorist threats, biotechnology is one of the most talked-about and exciting branches of science. And there is no faster or more effective way to master all the essential subtopics within this emerging area.

Biotechnology Demystified lets you learn at your own comfortable pace. Coverage advances logically and smoothly, from the basics of molecular and cellular biology to more complex topics. In this unique guide, learning is continually reinforced and achievement demonstrated. Multiple-choice quizzes at the ends of chapters and a final exam help guide you to topic mastery -- without stress or anxiety.

This one-of-a-kind self-teaching text helps you:

• Understand molecules and the cellular basis of life -- how information flows within the cell... DNA replication and cell division... how cells interact with what's "outside"
• Explore essential experimental techniques in biotechnology -- the stuff of "CSI"
• Learn what's involved in cancer and the cell cycle... infectious diseases... immunology... genetic disease
• Find out what the Human Genome Project is, and what it's used for
• Understand the science and controversy surrounding reproductive cloning and genetically modified (GM) crops
• Keep up with the accelerating pace of new drug development
• Take a "final exam" and grade it yourself!

Simple enough for a beginner, but challenging enough for an advanced student, Biotechnology Demystified is a lively and entertaining guide to understanding a science that's making the news daily!

About the Author

Bret Wing, Ph.D. (Tulsa, OK) recently finished a 6 year research fellowship at Princeton University in the Molecular Biology Department. Prior to this, he worked for 10 years in the Microbiology and Immunology Department at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He has extensive, professional level knowledge of the scientific concepts of many areas of biotechnology, as well as the experimental basis for these ideas. Bret is a member of the American Society of Microbiology.

Product Details

• Paperback: 276 pages
• Publisher: McGraw-Hill Professional; 1 edition (August 28, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0071448128
• ISBN-13: 978-0071448123
• Product Dimensions: 9.2 x 7.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 2.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (7 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #524,867 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A study guide for future bioengineers, October 15, 2006

By 

John Woods "TObject" (San Diego, CA, United States) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Biotechnology Demystified (Paperback)

This book is a study guide that presents examination quizzes at the end of each chapter and a large final exam at the end of the volume. The materials concentrate mostly on the DNA mechanics, monoclonal antibodies, and limited insight into issues of proteomics. Some examples of industrial and medical applications of biotechnology are discussed as well.

Probably the best sections of the book are dedicated to the subjects of stem cells. In particular, the current state of embryonic stem cell research is described very well, including methodological and sociological implications.

Contrary to the subject, this book does not demystify biotechnology, but it gives some insight into what scientists are working on to make this rapidly changing field of science less mysterious.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good value for money!, March 30, 2009

By 

kclam (Hong Kong, China) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Biotechnology Demystified (Paperback)

This book is well written and good value for money. It offers a lively introduction to the red hot biotechnology for beginners. Complex concepts of cell structures and functions are clearly explained. The summary and quiz of each chapter are particularly useful. I enjoy most reading about the interesting topics of immunotherapy, stem cell, proteomics and various medical applications of biotechnology.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Biotechnology Demystified, March 7, 2009

By 

Sree "Sree" (Binghamton, NY,USA) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Biotechnology Demystified (Paperback)

Biotechnology is a term that is well heard of, but nor correctly understood. For those wanting to get closer without the pain of all the technical details, this is a perfect way to do it. A good buy for the knowledge that it offers.