Cancers occur due to DNA abnormalities. These can happen as a result of, eg, smoking. But what about the social smoker who gets lung cancer while his 60-a-day mate doesn't? Cue genetic research.
Why does Katherine need to provide so much spit? To ensure there are enough DNA-heavy cheek cells in the tube. And why within 15 minutes? So it doesn’t dry out. Nice!
DNA is amazing. It’s what our genes are made of and what constitutes our genome. We share over 99% of our DNA with every other human, yet there's a one in a thousand million chance of two individuals having the same DNA profile. See? Mental.
Different life forms have different numbers of chromosomes. Bacteria have one, mosquitoes have six, humans have 46. But don’t be feeling superior. Chimps have 48, dogs 78, and goldfish 94. Go figure.
Katherine’s joke about a Mr Potato Head baby isn't that wacky. Before long the genetic technology will exist to modify embryos, or discard any that don’t reveal, eg, blue eyes and a slim build. Thankfully it’s unlikely this would ever be legal.
Why do men have nipples? We all start out female in the womb before the sex hormones get to work. The nipple-building instructions aren't held on the sex chromosomes, so everyone gets 'em.
Venous Thromboembolism is a blood clot that gets stuck in your veins. About one in every 1,000 people in the UK is affected by venous thrombosis every year. One of the most common kinds is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) but scientific studies haven't agreed if flying raises your risk of this condition.
Genetics Development October 08: Scientists map the panda genome to discover why they eat bamboo, why they have black circles around their eyes, and why they’re so rubbish at reproducing.
Genetics Development November 08: Soon genetic testing of unborn babies will be possible using only a drop of the mother's blood.
