The Gene

How Many Genes to Build an Organ Like the Brain?

How many genes does it take to build an organ as complex as the human brain? The answer? Fewer than in an onion! Discover just how many human genes there are.

How Many Genes to Build an Organ Like the Brain?

1m 15s

  • 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.

  • The Gene Explained | A Big Wooly Gene: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The Gene Explained | A Big Wooly Gene

    3m

    In the format of a cooking show, this episode delves into the difficulties of resurrecting extinct animals from remnant DNA. While the science fiction is famous, the reality is more complex and maybe impossible, but the science behind why it will likely stay science fiction is revealing.

  • The Gene Explained | Is That a Banana in Your Genes?: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    The Gene Explained | Is That a Banana in Your Genes?

    3m 21s

    It’s true that the banana and the slug are our genetic relatives, and so is everything else. But what does that mean? Which parts of our genes are related and just how much overall do we have in common with a banana and as science advances, how will that affect future fruit baskets?

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.