Book excerpt: Understanding Biotechnology offers an introduction to biotechnology that is balanced, accurate, current, thorough, and accessible to non-specialists and professionals alike. It begins with the field's history and key principles, then reviews every area of research, including cloning, gene therapy, pharmacogenomics, molecular markers, forensic DNA, bioremediation, and biodiversity. It presents detailed coverage of biosafety and ethics, plus a full chapter on bioterrorism.