The virtual body : genetics.

An introduction to genetic engineering and cloning - the practical and ethical issues, the prospects for treating disease and producing spare body parts. The programme begins by explaining DNA, chromosomes and genes. DNA sequencing at the Sanger Centre is shown and Dr. Michael Dexter of the Wellcome Trust discusses the benefits for medicine that may ensue from the Human Genome Project. Genetic engineering is explained with reference to insulin production. The transfer of genes between species, and the purpose of this procedure are explained with reference to Tracey, a transgenic sheep whose milk contains alpha-1 antitrypsan, used in the treatment of lung disease and cystic fibrosis. Regulations governing cloning are explained, with film of the technique and of Dolly, the cloned sheep. Prof. Kay Davies (Oxford Univ.) speaks of the hope that cloning will provide medical advances. The ways in which cloning could be abused are also discussed.