Chapter 9 of a 2 hour program. Running time 08:07. The discovery of the gene for cystic fibrosis(CF) leads to hope of a cure. This chapter explores the changes in a person's DNA and subsequent changes in their proteins which ultimately cause CF. This chapter uses 3D computer models to show how proteins are structured and discusses why shape is important to proteins. In addition, the question is...

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Chapter 12 of a two hour 16 part presentation. Running time 04:06. This chapter explores how scientists use the human genome to make the connection between a disease and a gene. Scientists use families to find the specific genes that cause a particular disease and Iceland is a perfect place to do that. As the company DeCODE gears up to create a giant DNA database using the Icelandic family tree...

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Chapter 14 of a 2 hour program. Running time 08:05. Mutations in the BRCA genes increase a woman's chance of having breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Everyone has these genes, but in a few families, these genes have mutations that are inherited. This chapter chronicles the story of three sisters with cancer in their family. Now that tests exist to determine if a person carries the mutated gene,...

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Chapter 2 of the video gives a history of Darwin's work in the two decades previous to writing his book "On the Origin of Species" in 1859. His voyage to the South American Galapagos Islands is recalled, where he marveled over hundreds of specimens of plants and animals. He was particularly interested in the birds of the islands and their varying characteristics. Upon his return to England he...

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Two lecture type video clips introduce stem cell: (1) the difference between embryonic stem cell and adult stem cell, (2)controversies related to stem cell research, (3) regenerative medicine.

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