Practical applications of genomics can be seen in Bullfrog Films' recent release, Cracking Cancer. The riveting stories of cancer victims—some who survive, some who do not—grip viewers as they learn about the science behind some of the latest cancer-fighting techniques. In particular, viewers learn about a British cancer agency called Personalized OncoGenomics. The scientists working there carry out clinical trials on cancer patients in ways unique to each individual by sequencing the patients' particular cancers. Honors and advanced placement students would benefit from watching this video both in affirming their understanding of genetics and in generating new understanding around biotechnologies.
Dr. Janessa Laskin appears on camera to describe the process by which they identify treatment for their patients. In short, a biopsy is made of a patient's tumor. The sample is genetically sequenced. DNA from one of the patient's normal cells is also sequenced. The two sequences are then...