Definition of Genetics

Genetics: The scientific study of heredity. Genetics pertains to humans and all other organisms. So, for example, there is human genetics, mouse genetics, fruitfly genetics, etc.

Human genetics today comprises a number of overlapping fields, including:

• Classical or formal genetics -- the study of the transmission of single genes within families and the analysis of more complex types of inheritance.
• Clinical genetics -- the diagnosis, prognosis and, in some cases, the treatment of genetic diseases.
• Genetic counseling -- an important area within clinical genetics involving the diagnosis, risk assessment, and interpersonal communication.
• Cytogenetics -- the study of chromosomes in health and disease.
• Biochemical genetics -- the biochemistry of nucleic acids and proteins including enzymes.
• Pharmacogenetics -- how genes govern the absorption, metabolism and disposal of drugs and untoward reactions to them.
• Molecular genetics -- the molecular study of genetics including particularly DNA and RNA.
• Immunogenetics -- the genetics of the immune system including blood groups, HLA, and the immunoglobulins.
• Behavioral genetics -- the study of genetic factors in behavior in health and disease including mental retardation and mental illness.
• Population genetics -- the study of genes within populations including gene frequencies, the gene pool, and evolution.
• Reproductive genetics -- the genetics of reproduction including genes and chromosomes in germ cells and the early embryo.
• Developmental genetics -- the genetics of normal and abnormal development including congenital malformations (birth defects).
• Ecogenetics -- the interaction of genetics with the environment.
• Forensic genetics -- the application of genetic knowledge, including DNA, to legal matters.