"Molecular and Genetic Analysis of Human Traits" is the first concise presentation of what is unique about human genetics. Designed to introduce human genetics to undergraduate and graduate students who are familiar with basic genetics, the text assumes knowledge of meiosis and Mendelian genetics as well as the basic principles of transmission of information from DNA to RNA to proteins. Professor Maroni's engaging presentation is both authoritative and student-oriented.Outstanding features highlight this groundbreaking first edition: Incorporates two basic themes throughout: 'How do we establish that a trait is hereditary?' and 'How can the properties of a trait be explained by the underlying molecular causes?' ; compares standard genetic approaches to those needed for studying inheritance in humans; prepares students for understanding the original literature by clear presentation of actual experiments; chapters 3 and 4 include thorough treatment of the human genome project as explained in its rationale, its development, and its conclusion; and, provides a comprehensive explanation of how genes are mapped by describing the four methods most commonly used: linkage analysis, affected pedigree member, allelic association, and candidate gene.It offers exceptional student-friendly pedagogy: Describes a wealth of applications, including: how genetics is used in understanding cancer (Chapter 8) and how genetic predictions impact counseling for families who are at risk (Chapter 9); addresses relevant clinical examples and key related ethical issues; the Human Genome Project Box includes the latest, culminating research; Internet Site Boxes refer to pertinent human genetics; and, URLs, chapter opening contents, margin notes, two-color figures, four-color insert, examples, conclusions, end-of-chapter exercises, over 150 original literature citation, and much more.