Review by Choice Review
Hogan (history, Creighton Univ.) presents a historical review of the "postwar" recognition, development, and medical response to human genetic diseases. Primarily covering work from 1960 through the present, the text focuses on well-characterized examples of genetically associated disorders. Fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and DiGeorge syndrome were each initially characterized in the 1970s by cytogenetic associations and secondary development of molecular biology assays. By presenting a historical review of the critical scientific literature for these clinical examples, the narrative provides an excellent demonstration of the sequential, developmental process of scientific discovery and acceptance of disease mechanisms--what Hogan refers to as the "life history" of each disorder. Throughout, Hogan relates technological advancements to clinical improvements, especially through prenatal testing. The final chapter brings the modern molecular, post-human genome world into sharp focus by presenting current screening technologies. The sociological impact, controversies, and response are addressed via specific authors or examples, but are not presented as a central theme. As a highlight of this text, Hogan ensures that the valuable and insightful contributions of many women scientists are included, along with their male colleagues. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates and above; faculty and professionals. --Dale L. Beach, Longwood University
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
