This science elective deals with the basic concepts of how information is stored in DNA and how the cell utilizes the appropriate information at the correct time. Also discussed in this class:

-- the structure of DNA

-- the structure and organization of genes

-- the genetic code

-- the signals involved in gene activity

-- the composition and organization of the human genome

-- the consequences of errors in DNA: cancer and genetic disease

YSP participants who chose to take part in this class also explore the advances in recombinant DNA technology that have made possible the current understanding of gene structure and function, and the range of practical applications of gene cloning technology to agriculture and medicine. The laboratory will be an introduction to the experimental analysis of DNA, and will emphasize practical applications of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) such as in DNA fingerprinting and genetic screening. Students will work with the same methods and equipment commonly used in research laboratories around the world.