Genetics
Genetics: The scientific study of heredity. Genetics pertains to humans and all other organisms. So, for example, there is human genetics, mouse genetics, fruit fly 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.
(Cancer genetics — the study of genetic factors in inherited and sporadic cancer.
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). (Cancer genetics- The study of the genetic factors in inherited and sporadic cancer)
Ecogenetics — the interaction of genetics with the environment.
Forensic genetics — the application of genetic knowledge, including DNA, to legal matters.
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