The Future of the Human Genome Project Essay -- Science Genetics Biolo

The Future of the Human Genome Project Can you imagine knowing your own genetic code? Going into the doctor for a routine physical and leaving with the knowledge of your genetic downfalls so that you may prevent disease and cancers. This may seem unbelievable but it is likely to be implemented in the near future. Since the start of the human genome project, the medical community has been anxiously awaiting its completion because the applications it has to this field are obviously enormous. However, we still have much to learn about genetic variability and the information we gain can be used to prevent, repair, and eradicate illness. About fifteen years ago at a conference near Salt Lake City, the Department of Energy brought up a question that would change the face of science, more specifically molecular genetics. They questioned why there was no DNA research on the way mutations are detected and they decided to change that. Thus, the Human Genome Project was born. Actually there was a lot more planning to do before the work began, ranging from the technical aspects to developing a separate commission dealing with the ethical issues. Eight years after officially starting the project, the public is in awe of what has been accomplished. The projected goal is to have an accurate, complete sequence of human DNA by the year 2003, two years sooner than previously expected (Collins, 1998). The reason for the project is on schedule is that innovative techniques are being applied in DNA sequencing that are more cost effective as well as more efficient. The discovery of new techniques, as well as developing extensive genetic and physical maps have been the primary goals of the project. A detailed genetic map will enable scienti... ...ring in our lives. The question is, "Are we ready for them?" References 1- Human Genome Project Information. Obtained 10/8/98: http://www.ornl.gov/TechResources/Human_Genome/home.html. 2- About the Human Genome Project. Obtained 10/08/98: http://www.nhgri.nih.gov/Policy_and_public_affairs/Communications/Publications/Maps_to_medicine/about.html. 3- Collins, Francis S., et al. "New Goals for the U.S Human Genome Project: 1998-2003." Science. 23 Oct. 1998: 682-689. 4- Suzuki, David, and Peter Kundtson. Genethics: the clash between the new genetics and human values. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 1990. 5- Peters, Ted. Playing God? Genetic Determinism and Human Freedom. New York, NY: Routledge, 1997. 6- Fickett, James W., et al. The Human Genome Project: Deciphering the Blueprint of Heredity. Mill Valley, CA: University Science Books, 1994.