Genes are pieces of DNA that contain the instructions for making a particular protein.
Dr. Bert O'Malley, a Baylor cell biologist, used the gene switch in mice to activate the gene that secretes human growth hormone. His genetic tool controlled the amount of growth hormone produced as well as the length of time the gene was activated. The switch consists of two genes. The switch can be injected, taken orally in the form of a pill or rubbed into the skin like a cream. All Rights Reserved.