Unit 2 Genes and Genetics

Introductory Remarks

Genetics is the study of genes， units of heredity and it is closely related to biochemistry， medicine， and evolution. A genetic disease may or may not be a heritable disorder. For some of the strong personal or family history of certain diseases， such as cancer， genetic testing is necessary to help to lower the risk and increase chances of survival. Genetic engineering is a very young， thrilling， and controversial area in the fi eld of biological sciences. It offers the possibility of both benefi ts， such as cures for diseases， diversity of material improvements to our life， and dangers， such as the loss of genetic and species diversity by the destruction of natural habitats. It can be a blessing as well as a curse. How to make good use of it is a thought-provoking question.

Part I Introduction to Genes and Genetics

Video One

Words and Expressions

heredity 遺傳，遺傳特征 genetics 遺傳學

discipline 學科 evolution 進化

inherit 繼承 cross breed 雜交種

trait 特征，特點 drought 干旱

offspring 後代，子孫 encompass 包圍，包括

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