Cytology and Genetics

Abstract

THE development of cytology in its relation to genetics is a chapter of more than usual interest in the history of biology. Cytology in the modern sense developed during the last quarter of the nineteenth century as a purely observational science. The general nature and behaviour of cells, nuclei and chromosomes were worked out during that period, although the cell theory, of course, originated much earlier. The rediscovery of Mendelism and the announcement of mutation at the turn of the present century marked a new epoch in biology, and soon gave abundant meaning to the observations regarding chromosomes which the cytologists had already accumulated. Henceforth cytology and the young science of genetics mutually influenced each other, and each derived increasing strength from the observations of the other.

Introduction to Cytology.

By Lester W. Sharp. (McGraw-Hill Publications in the Agricultural and Botanical Sciences.) Third edition. Pp. xiv ‘ 567. (New York and London: McGraw-Hill Book Co., Inc., 1934.) 30s. net.