From selective breeding in agriculture to animal cloning and the production of recombinant proteins, science continues to develop ways to modify the genetic code. This program spotlights the basic tools and techniques for manipulating DNA and how these are also used to investigate genetic functions. Viewers will learn about the coding and non-coding sections of DNA; the basics of PCR or the polymerase chain reaction; the use of viral vectors and plasmids in order to transfer DNA; and the various types of cloning, including molecular, cellular, and nuclear. Ethical questions arising from genetic engineering and the manipulation of DNA are also discussed.

Encoded with permission for digital streaming by Infobase on Aug. 19, 2009. Learn360 is distributed by Infobase for Films for the Humanities & Sciences, Cambridge Educational, Meridian Education, and Shopware.

Genetic Manipulation: The Basics (1:09) -- Protein Synthesis and Gene Manipulation (1:38) -- Genes and DNA Overview (0:31) -- Genetic Mutations (1:22) -- Genetic Modification (0:44) -- What Is Cloning? (1:44) -- Human Uses of Genetic Manipulation (1:38) -- Laboratory Research on Liver Disease (1:35) -- Gene Therapy (1:25) -- Use of Animals in Genetic Manipulation (1:34) -- Agricultural Uses of Genetic Manipulation (1:59) -- Gene Selection for Desirable Characteristics (1:33) -- Environmental Uses of Genetic Manipulation (3:04) -- Importance of Genetic Manipulation (0:32) -- Importance to Environment of Genetic Manipulation (1:24) -- Genetic Modification: Ethical Issues (1:13) -- Long-Terms Effects of Genetic (2:05) -- Genetic Engineering Overview (0:48).