From the companion website of a PBS broadcast that profiles the family roots of twelve Americans of African descent, we learn what the science of DNA can tell us about family history that photos, letters, diaries, and other records cannot.

Genes are instruction manuals for our bodies and are contained in DNA. This video describes how genes make us unique.

Observe a scientist describe the process used to extract DNA from a cell and to analyze it on a gene chip. [1:41]

Learn about the many applications of DNA technologies. [5:00]

A gene as a stretch of DNA on a chromosome. Alleles as versions (sequence variants) of a gene. [8:18]

Introduction to nucleic acids (e.g., DNA and RNA) and nucleotides. [5:54]

DNA weaves together the tapestry of life on Earth. It mutates, which can lead to variation among organisms. Watch how natural selection relies on DNA to mold organisms to suit their environments. Play the Evolution Lab:...

Find out about southern blot in understanding DNA. [5:09]

This video lesson is designed for Class 12 Biology (India). This video lesson explains how new discoveries have expanded or contradicted the original central dogma of molecular biology as proposed by Watson and Crick. These discoveries...

This video lesson is designed for Class 12 Biology (India). This video lesson explains the central dogma of molecular biology, as explained by Watson and Crick.

A deep dive into how mRNA is translated into proteins with the help of ribosomes and tRNA. [14:11]

This video serves as an introduction to transcription including the role of RNA polymerase, promoters, terminators, introns, and exons. [10:25]

This video walks you through the steps of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR). [9:53]

An introduction to Mendelian Genetics and inheritance. [5:10]

Watch this video to witness one scientist's efforts to understand the DNA of extinct creatures so as to better understand the diversity of life today.

Explains what DNA hybridization and a microarray are and how this biotechnology is used. [8:57]

Learn about the cell organelle that contains the DNA in this video. [6 min. 4 sec.]

Review for your MCAT by watching this video on the different types of genetic mutations. [5:52]

Prepare for the MCAT by watching this video on telomeres and Single Copy DNA V. Repetitive DNA. [5:33]

This video explains how the double helix structure of DNA was discovered. [8:56]

RNA may have been the origin of life on Earth. Go on a whirlwind tour of RNA's evolving role through billions of years of evolutionary history. [3:02]

This video explores the science of taxonomy and where humans fit into the tree of life. [12:41]

This video shows students that all organisms are composed of DNA which allows scientist to genetically modified organisms. Video explains the possibilities of recombinant DNA. [1:32]

Before CSI or Law and Order, how did chemical crimes come to light? Ira talks with author Deborah Blum about her new book about the dawn of medical forensics.