BOOK OF THE WEEK: Genes Do Not Determine Everything, or Why a Clone is Never an Exact Copy of the Original
This week's featured book on Kuku Radio explores the complexity of cells and emphasizes that understanding living organisms requires more than just knowledge of DNA.
The latest discussion on Kuku Radio highlights the book 'Builder' by Alfonso Martinez Arias, which presents a novel perspective on the world of cells and their critical role in the past and present of living organisms. The hosts, Marek Strandberg and biologist Toivo Maimets, elaborate on how traditional views that focus predominantly on DNA as the blueprint of life are insufficient to comprehend the intricacies of living systems.
In their overview, the hosts point out that the history and functioning of organisms depend heavily on cellular processes. This insight challenges the reductionist view that genes alone dictate biological outcomes and suggests that various factors contribute to the development and characteristics of living beings. The discussion reflects on how cellular interactions and environments can influence genetic expression and overall organismal behavior.
This exploration has significant implications for the fields of biology and genetics, advocating for a more holistic understanding of life sciences. As the conversation unfolds, it invites listeners to reconsider preconceived notions about heredity and identity, especially in the context of advances in cloning and biotechnology.