The Human Genome ProjectSpec 3.21
The Human Genome Project was an international research project to map the human genome. It was completed in 2003 and identified the sequence of bases in human DNA and where the genes are.
Potential applications in medicine
- Finding the genes linked to inherited disorders, so that people at risk can be tested and their risk predicted.
- Developing new treatments and drugs, and tailoring treatment to a person's own genes.
- Understanding how genes are involved in disease, which could help prevent or diagnose it earlier.
Concerns
- People may not want to know if they are likely to develop a disease that cannot be cured, which could cause worry.
- Genetic information must be kept private. There are concerns that it could be used unfairly, for example by insurers or employers.
Quick check
State where genetic variation in a population comes from.
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Mutations (and sexual reproduction).
What is environmental variation?
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Different characteristics caused by an organism's environment (acquired characteristics).
What effect do most mutations have on the phenotype?
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No effect.
Give one possible medical use of the Human Genome Project.
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For example, identifying genes linked to inherited disorders so that people can be tested, or developing treatments.