The ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter genes are ubiquitous in the genomes of all vertebrates so far studied. The human ABC transporter superfamily contains 48 genes, subdivided into 7 subfamilies ranging from A to G (based on sequence homology of their nucleotide binding domains). The ABC proteins encoded by these genes are ATP-driven transmembrane pumps, some of which possess the capacity to efflux harmful toxic substances and therefore play a key role in xenobiotic defense. ABC proteins have been evolutionarily conserved from bacteria to humans and multiple gene duplication and...

A Journey Through Genetics is designed to take the reader on an incredible journey to explore the exciting discoveries in genetics and molecular biology. In Part I, the reader will embark on a genetic odyssey starting with the ""Father of Genetics,"" Gregor Mendel, leading on to the amazing story of photo 51 and the discovery of the structure of the DNA double helix, and culminating with the invention of one of the most powerful tools in molecular biology: the polymerase chain reaction. The reader will discover the stories behind the science of genetics while going behind the scenes to take a...