In this chapter, you will read about how the principles of genetics apply to humans and how the human genome is organized. You will also find out about how scientists are using new techniques for analyzing and manipulating DNA to better understand the human genome and to treat genetic diseases.

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Chapter Outline

Section 14-1: Human Heredity
All egg cells carry a single X chromosome (23X). However, half of all sperm cells carry an X chromosome (23X), and half carry a Y chromosome (23Y). This ensures that just about half of the zygotes will be 46XX (female), and half will be 46XY (male).
In both cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease, a small change in the DNA of a single gene affects the structure of a protein, causing a serious genetic disorder.

Section 14-2: Human Chromosomes
Males have just one X chromosome. Thus, all X-linked alleles are expressed in males, even if they are recessive.
Nondisjunction causes gametes to have abnormal numbers of chromosomes, which in turn causes a chromosome number disorder.

Section 14-3: Human Molecular Genetics
The Human Genome Project is an attempt to sequence all human DNA.
In gene therapy, an absent or faulty gene is replaced by a normal, working gene.