Lisa Spock

Lisa Cushman Spock, PhD, CGC, is a clinical genomics specialist and former genetics counselor at Indiana University School of Medicine.

Articles & Books From Lisa Spock

Article / Updated 01-30-2020
Many milestones define the history of genetics. The events in the world of genetics are listed here roughly in order of historical occurrence. ©Nasky/Shutterstock.com The publication of Darwin’s The Origin of Species Earthquakes have aftershocks — little mini-earthquakes that rattle around after the main quake.
Article / Updated 01-30-2020
Transgenic critters (genetically modified organisms) are all over the place. Animals, insects, and bacteria have all gotten in on the fun. In this article, you take a trip to the transgenic zoo to learn a little bit about the menagerie. Transgenic animals Mice were the organisms of choice in the development of transgenic methods.
Article / Updated 01-30-2020
One of the hottest topics these days is gene editing (also known as genome editing). Gene editing is a group of genetic engineering technologies that allow scientists to change a specific sequence within the genome. Each of these technologies involves an engineered enzyme called a nuclease, which can cut DNA, along with some kind of guide to lead the enzyme to the right place in the genome.
Article / Updated 01-30-2020
If genetic modification is so ubiquitous, what’s the problem with transgenic organisms? After all, humans have been at this whole genetic modification thing for centuries, right? Well, historically, humans have modified organisms by controlling matings between animals and plants with preexisting genetic compatibility, not by introducing sequences from different species.
Article / Updated 01-30-2020
Genetics is a field that grows and changes with every passing day. This list shines the spotlight on ten of the hottest topics and next big things in this ever-changing scientific landscape. ©Dusan Petkovic/Shutterstock.com Direct-to-consumer genetic testing Not too long ago, genetic testing was uncommon and was reserved for visits to a geneticist, genetic counselor, or other specialized healthcare provider.
Genetics For Dummies
Evolve your knowledge of the fast-moving world of genetic research Genetics For Dummies shines a light on the fascinating field of genetics, helping you gain a greater understanding of how genetics factors into everyday life. Perfect as a supplement to a genetics course or as an intro for the curious, this book is packed with easy-to-understand explanations of the key concepts, including an overview of cell biology.
Cheat Sheet / Updated 11-21-2023
Genetics is a complex field with lots of details to keep straight. But when you get a handle on some key terms and concepts, including the structure of DNA and the laws of inheritance, you can start putting the pieces together for a better understanding of genetics.The scientific language of geneticsFrom chromosomes to DNA to dominant and recessive alleles, learning the language of genetics is equivalent to learning the subject itself.