We are at the dawn of the new Age of Biology...

Scientists have already decoded the entire human genome, a magnificent achievement in itself, but how can the human race expect to benefit from this important milestone? Genetic screening is already being used to eliminate disease and scientists are well down the road to successfully repairing DNA. But will we stop at repair or could we go on to improve on our species, to redesign the perfect human? This groundbreaking series explores the limits of a remarkable science.

The 21st century will be shaped by a revolution in biology, which will enable us to read the genetic code of life as we would read a book. The new age will give us an almost god-like ability to manipulate and build humans at will. We have gained the power to control the destiny of our species. This series will give you a glimpse of the future of humankind.




Scientists are now at the history-making moment of unlocking the instructions hidden in human cells. This film shows how a cluster of undeveloped cells, a human embryo, is artificially cloned for the first time. Controversial future plans include using these cells to grow vital organs and create disease-resistant babies.


A look at the veracity of scientists' claims that they are on the verge of being able to predict our futures by analysing our genes and DNA.


Part 3 of the continuing BBC2 television series opened with the words: 'Despite being widely practised, sex has always been a bit of a mystery. But science is starting to unlock its secrets - literally getting under our skin to reveal a new bizarre world.


The programme opened offering the prospect of an 'elixir of youth' to double our life-span, which science should be able to provide in the near future. Certain animals - like the hydra - have already cracked this problem; why shouldn't we?