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What Is a Gene?

Genes are the instructions for life as we know it. They affect your development before you're even born and play a role in everything from your appearance to your personality.  Genes contain information about your heritage and your risk for certain diseases.  Understanding your genes is part of understanding yourself, and you can use information about genetics to make decisions in your daily life.

How does genetics work?
Glossary and acronyms

Genetic Discoveries

People have been studying genetics for a long time. As the years pass and technology advances, we are able to learn more every day. Tomorrow's discoveries will help us understand still more about our genomes and ourselves so we can lead healthier lives.

Why learn about genetics?
Teaching Resources