An Introduction to Genetic Engineering

and the pharmaceutical implications are vast: for example, the development of a widely used type of antihypertensive agent, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, derived from snake venom research. Grenard is to be commended on his succinct thoroughness and attention to detail. Every organism is identified by its common and taxonomic name. Facts are quantitative rather than qualitative wherever possible. The bibliography, researched by David Katz, is extensive and very much up to date. It is only unfortunate that not more than two authors are listed for every reference. The only major criticism that I hold against Medical Herpetology is its lack of objective criticism towards much of the research presented. Conclusions are often more optimistic than warranted. The author's enthusiasm for herpetology's impact on human medicine gives the reader the impression that every research avenue is likely to yield a major breakthrough. History and common sense tell us that this is not so. Happily, when one is intrigued but skeptical about something mentioned, many relevant citations will direct the curious to the primary sources of controversy. Medical Herpetology is a book full of facts and figures that range from the clinically relevant to minutiae medica, from important investigations to cocktail-party fare. It is original, scholarly and fulfills its mandate entirely, although it may at times test your credulity (e.g., the Australian Gastric Brooding Frog). The book is highly recommended to physicians, scientists and students fascinated by, or even only curious about, these underrated animals. As the author puts it, the book is "..the logical culmination of [...] medical and herpetological interests." I am grateful to budding herpetologist Dane Trembath for bringing it to my attention. With the ever-increasing number of recombinant DNA methods, newcomers to the field may become overwhelmed by the proliferation of terminology and techniques. This book sets out to demystify a full range of genetic engineering technology developed over the past twenty years. Beginning with a basic introduction to DNA structure, it quickly moves into more advanced topics such as plasmid and bacteriophage vectors. Subsequent chapters describe cloning strategies, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and screening techniques such as restriction mapping and Southern blotting. The last chapter concerning current examples of gene manipulation-transgenic plants and chimeric animals makes for particularly fascinating reading. The book's purpose is to be brief, yet all-encompassing, in its survey. Its structure reflects that purpose: a few paragraphs for each technique or technology. There is …