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Tears of the Cheetah: The Genetic Secrets of Our Animal Ancestors
The history of life on Earth is dominated by extinction events so numerous that over 99.9% of the species ever to have existed are gone forever. If animals could talk, we would ask them to recall their own ancestries, in particular the secrets as to how they avoided almost inevitable annihilation in the face of daily assaults by predators, climactic cataclysms, deadly infections and innate diseases.
In Tears of the Cheetah, medical geneticist and conservationist Stephen J. O'Brien narrates fast-moving science adventure stories that explore the mysteries of survival among the earth's most endangered and beloved wildlife. Here we uncover the secret histories of exotic species such as Indonesian orangutans, humpback whales, and the imperiled cheetah-the world's fastest animal which nonetheless cannot escape its own genetic weaknesses.
Among these genetic detective stories we also discover how the Serengeti lions have lived with FIV (the feline version of HIV), where giant pandas really come from, how bold genetic action pulled the Florida panther from the edge of extinction, how the survivors of the medieval Black Death passed on a genetic gift to their descendents, and how mapping the genome of the domestic cat solved a murder case in Canada.
With each riveting account of animal resilience and adaptation, a remarkable parallel in human medicine is drawn, adding yet another rationale for species conservation-mining their genomes for cures to our own fatal diseases. Tears of the Cheetah offers a fascinating glimpse of the insight gained when geneticists venutre into the wild.
In Tears of the Cheetah, medical geneticist and conservationist Stephen J. O'Brien narrates fast-moving science adventure stories that explore the mysteries of survival among the earth's most endangered and beloved wildlife. Here we uncover the secret histories of exotic species such as Indonesian orangutans, humpback whales, and the imperiled cheetah-the world's fastest animal which nonetheless cannot escape its own genetic weaknesses.
Among these genetic detective stories we also discover how the Serengeti lions have lived with FIV (the feline version of HIV), where giant pandas really come from, how bold genetic action pulled the Florida panther from the edge of extinction, how the survivors of the medieval Black Death passed on a genetic gift to their descendents, and how mapping the genome of the domestic cat solved a murder case in Canada.
With each riveting account of animal resilience and adaptation, a remarkable parallel in human medicine is drawn, adding yet another rationale for species conservation-mining their genomes for cures to our own fatal diseases. Tears of the Cheetah offers a fascinating glimpse of the insight gained when geneticists venutre into the wild.
369 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2003
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534 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
April 28, 2020
The book consists of the research done by the author in the field of molecular biology. The research goes back to time span of 1960s to 2000. And hence to the current times it might be little outdated but yet remains important.
Essentially author talks about the relevance of gene biology in conservation science. Indeed he highlights the initial setbacks in the field where others suspected the research and authenticity of molecular biology.
There are indeed some interesting findings about the population of cheetah or the population of lions specially in gir. The first part of the book does great justice to the theme. The stories start like a detective searching for clues. The writing makes you go with the flow and finally it takes you to the conclusion. Some of the taxonomic puzzles and their conclusions will surely be a interesting read for anybody having a interest in conservation science.
Although the second part of the book is little stretched but still remains important. Some of the conclusions with regard to bushmeat menace and the evolution of HIV virus are worth reading. I do agree with the author that going ahead many fields have to come together but evolutionary data through genomic sequencing should be given the topmost priority. The simple reason is that morphological traits might deceive the biologist but genes cannot lie.
Essentially author talks about the relevance of gene biology in conservation science. Indeed he highlights the initial setbacks in the field where others suspected the research and authenticity of molecular biology.
There are indeed some interesting findings about the population of cheetah or the population of lions specially in gir. The first part of the book does great justice to the theme. The stories start like a detective searching for clues. The writing makes you go with the flow and finally it takes you to the conclusion. Some of the taxonomic puzzles and their conclusions will surely be a interesting read for anybody having a interest in conservation science.
Although the second part of the book is little stretched but still remains important. Some of the conclusions with regard to bushmeat menace and the evolution of HIV virus are worth reading. I do agree with the author that going ahead many fields have to come together but evolutionary data through genomic sequencing should be given the topmost priority. The simple reason is that morphological traits might deceive the biologist but genes cannot lie.
August 1, 2014
This is the kind of book that your friends can't wait for you to finish, so that they can get some peace. Because you can't stop texting, emailing, calling, and interrupting conversations to share the newest, coolest thing this book told you. It is so cool that you physically cannot stop yourself sharing and trying to talk other people into reading it immediately.
It's that good.
It should be required reading for anyone interested in conservation science, especially anyone interested in conservation genetics.
It's a fascinating adventure story. There are mysteries bundled up in each chapter. The writing is witty and well-done. You're left with the feeling that you should maybe see if O'Brien is free to attend your next dinner party. Or camping expedition.
The science is just knock-your-socks off cool. I kept running across the names of people I knew or had heard of, and then I'd have to put down the book for another round of running around to tell everyone else in reach about it.
You need to read it. Right away.
It's that good.
It should be required reading for anyone interested in conservation science, especially anyone interested in conservation genetics.
It's a fascinating adventure story. There are mysteries bundled up in each chapter. The writing is witty and well-done. You're left with the feeling that you should maybe see if O'Brien is free to attend your next dinner party. Or camping expedition.
The science is just knock-your-socks off cool. I kept running across the names of people I knew or had heard of, and then I'd have to put down the book for another round of running around to tell everyone else in reach about it.
You need to read it. Right away.
October 4, 2021
I feel like the chapters were out of order at times and it made it difficult to follow but overall not bad for a school assignment.
February 16, 2013
الكتاب جيد، الترجمة غير موفقة. كتاب للتسالي، ولو إنه بحاجة إلى قراءات سابقة في هذا الموضوع. يُنصح وبشدة قراءته باللغة الإنجليزية.
February 12, 2025
History and discussion of genetic scientist Dr Stephen O’Brien’s wide ranging research, including multiple field studies, into the effects of genes on humans and other mammals (cats, monkeys, pandas, whales and more). A lot of scientific detail was challenging to understand. Don’t miss the 8-page Glossary at the back, plus Suggestions for Further Reading and Index. Thanks to Malcolm Gladwell’s reference to the cheetah example in his latest “Revenge of the Tipping Point.”
This book was written in 2003 and much has happened in the field of genetic engineering and the ethical issues since then. I’ll be looking for some updated perspectives.
For my friends on PEI, see Chapter 11 “Snowball’s Chance,” in which genetic analysis of cat hair helped solve a 1994 murder case.
This book was written in 2003 and much has happened in the field of genetic engineering and the ethical issues since then. I’ll be looking for some updated perspectives.
For my friends on PEI, see Chapter 11 “Snowball’s Chance,” in which genetic analysis of cat hair helped solve a 1994 murder case.
October 24, 2017
Замечательная книга о геномных проектах, часть из которых длится по сей день, начавшись поколение+ назад. Биоконсервация, борьба с (и история возниковения) ВИЧ, первый случай геномного paw-принтинга и многое многое другое :) Увлекательные истории, рассказанные живо и с юмором человеком, лично участвовавшим во всех этих исследованиях. Еще более забавно представлять "действие в лицах", будучи лично знакомой с автором.
Поскольку все методы исследований описаны доступным языком, использование терминологии сведено к минимуму, а в конце книги приведен словарь встретившихся к тексте терминов, - читать "Слезы" запросто смогут и не биологи. К прочтению рекомендую!
Поскольку все методы исследований описаны доступным языком, использование терминологии сведено к минимуму, а в конце книги приведен словарь встретившихся к тексте терминов, - читать "Слезы" запросто смогут и не биологи. К прочтению рекомендую!
May 26, 2024
A little old at this point, but a really fascinating book about the beginnings of studying the DNA of big cats. Very well-written. There is a talk on cheetahs and cat evolution by the author on youtube. (I also recommend the Singapore Wildcat Action Group series of lectures on youtube, which has an update on cheetah genetics by another professor.)
June 13, 2020
This scientist is an example. Not for the specific area of him. . He sure is in advance onits time . He make research happens without the frivolity or concerned with what others will think of his distinct ideas. Other words: he is the guy that thinks out of the Box.
February 15, 2015
I am actually reading the hardcover edition, which, oddly, has a different subtitle ("And Other Tales From the Genetic Frontier"). I can't figure out why they changed that between editions, and I actually feel that the original subtitle captured the essence of the book more. Each chapter is indeed a story from O'Brien's adventures in genetic research, from working with large cats conservation projects to solving a murder case with DNA from a housecat. The adventure is mixed with solid scientific information, presented in a way the non-geneticist can grasp.
November 14, 2010
Very much enjoyed this book. Contains very interesting profiles in each chapter, of examples of great strides and interesting areas of science, and the sometimes messy ethical and real life consequences of that. Gives a broad view into genetics/evolutionary science, which covers many different areas and shows the diversity of the field, but also shows the emotional turmoil often accompanied with study of these areas.
March 13, 2015
Although dated (published in 2003), Dr. O'Brien's compilation of stories of his work in genetic sleuthing is a great read for those who are beginning in the field. In particular, the early chapters on the importance of genetic diversity to a healthy species is a message relevant to both the endangered animal and human animal worlds.
January 26, 2008
A great way to learn the ins and outs of molecular genetics and wildlife conservation (with a focus on giant felines)! It's the perfect combination of the technical and narrative. It's also a timely lens for understanding species variation and ecology.
February 27, 2008
An interesting and enlightening look at genetics and genetic science. It will not take a doctorate to read this well written and thoughtful book. If you are intrigued by genetics, if you like science, read this book.
February 17, 2008
No Fiction. Fascinating. Molecular biology simplified. Animal and human worlds explored with medical and criminal stories. Still reading
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2012
Great book on genetics - very easy to read, a bit dated now, but still interesting and well written....particularly if you like animals
August 3, 2018
I had to read this for my Comparative Genetics class and it's amazing. O'Brien is a great writer and makes each chapter really easy to read. Would seriously recommend.
10/10
10/10
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews