DNA Series

DNA: Pandora's Box (2003)

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Nobel Laureate Jim Watson gives a guided tour of the future of genetic engineering. Looks at the eugenics movement and genetic selection for families with children that have disabilities. Discusses scientists that speak out in favor of to the manipulation of DNA to benefit humans, and those scientists who fear the risks of losing genetic variation and "playing God."

Grade Level:

High

Length:

00:57

DNA: Curing Cancer (2003)

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Tells the story of how a small group of scientists have developed radical new ways of treating cancer on the genetic level. Focuses on two pioneering efforts: one that isolated the gene linked to breast cancer, and the other which eventually lead to the anti-cancer drug Gleevec, used in the treatment of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia.

Grade Level:

High

Length:

00:57

DNA: The Human Race (2003)

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Examines the Human Genome Project and tracks the progress, including the scientific innovations which lead to its completion. Includes a discussion of its political and economic impact of the project. Includes interviews with scientists involved with the project.

Grade Level:

High

Length:

00:57

DNA: Playing God (2003)

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This program tells the story of genetic engineering's pioneers and the controversy surrounding it. Focuses on the race to synthesize insulin and genetically modified crops. Includes interviews with leading biochemists and molecular biologists.

Grade Level:

High

Length:

00:57

DNA: The Secret of Life (2003)

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Fifty years ago, two unknown scientists ran into an English pub shouting that they had found the secret of life. Jim Watson and Francis Crick were not exaggerating. Narrated by Jeff Goldblum, this series looks back on the achievements that launched a new era in biology and human life itself.

Grade Level:

High

Length:

00:57