The Gene

DNA: Read Whole or in Part

Did you know that the DNA found within each gene can be read whole or in part, producing different results? It’s as if the exact same phrases and sentences that provide the instructions for making the legs of a chair could be rearranged to make the seat or the armrests.

DNA: Read Whole or in Part

52s

  • The Gene Explained | The Gene That Transformed: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The Gene Explained | The Gene That Transformed

    3m 9s

    What terrifying things go on in a chrysalis, and what dark role do genes play? In this episode, learn how a hormone wakes up a gene that triggers the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly -- from forming a chrysalis to liquefying the caterpillar to fuel the imaginal discs that form a butterfly.

  • The Gene Explained | Invasion of the Gene Snatchers: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The Gene Explained | Invasion of the Gene Snatchers

    3m 1s

    How do viruses work? Sort of like aliens that invade cells and take them over. They do that enough times, and you’ve got a big ol’ problem on your hands. In this episode, learn how a virus invades and what it does to not only kill a cell but create a sort of infectious bomb that contaminates other cells.

  • The Gene Explained | Gene Damage: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The Gene Explained | Gene Damage

    3m 25s

    What goes on in our DNA to make us grow grey hair, wrinkles and less than healthy DNA? In this episode, meet the workforce of proteins and enzymes in control of cell division and gene copying, and learn how damage can happen during cell-duplication, exposure to radiation or chemicals, other environmental variables like stress, diet, and even aging.

WETA Passport

Stream tens of thousands of hours of your PBS and local favorites with WETA Passport whenever and wherever you want. Catch up on a single episode or binge-watch full seasons before they air on TV.