Human Genome Project
Anjitha
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Human Genome Project was discovered by Francis Collin and Roderick
The Human Genome Project (HGP) was an international, collaborative effort to determine the DNA sequence of the entire human genome. the goal was the complete mapping and understanding of all the genes of human beings. All our genes together are known as our genome.
A genome is an organism’s complete set of genetic information in the genome. A genome includes all of the hereditary instructions for creating and maintaining life, as well as instructions for reproduction.
- The human genome project determines the complete and accurate sequence of whole human DNA contains3 billion nucleotides.
It also aims to find out all estimated human genomes having 20000 to 25000 genes.
It also aims at several organisms’ entire gene sequencing. which is important in research such as medical research.
Identification of disease-causing genes. and eliminate them.
Process
- Isolated the complete gene set from a cell. Then it was split into small fragments.
- With the help of vectors, this DNA structure is amplified.
- By using DNA sequencers the smaller fragments were then sequenced. and the sequences were then arranged On the basis of overlapping regions
- This way all the information of the entire genome was sequenced and stored as a genome database on computers. Genome mapping with the help of microsatellites (repetitive DNA sequences) was the next goal that was achieved.
Features
- Our entire genome is made up of 3164.7 million base pairs and a gene is made up of 3000 nucleotides.
- Less than 2% of genes only coded proteins
- The function of more than 50% of genes not discovered
- Most of the genome is made up of repetitive sequences which have no specific coding purposes. but these unuseful codes can help us better to understand the genetic development of humanity through the ages.
Advantages of Human Genome Project
- it could help the diagnosis of diseases and also prevention of human disease: We can understand more about the human body and how to manage and cure various conditions. By understanding our genetic profile doctors could diagnose problems with more certainty. This would lead to more early detection of our issues.
- Improves medicine: Medicines can be developed based on individual bodies’ reactions to the disease and the treatments. Which becomes more effective because the medicines will be fitted for our specific medical needs.
- It will help farmers with livestock breeding and creating disease-resistant crops and animals
- Helps to improve Forensic science and criminal justice: DNA studies that were part of HGP so it helps to develop DNA fingerprinting. Comparing samples of DNA of an individual with another collected is one method of identifying people who may have committed a crime. Our systems of criminal justice can become more effective through this technology.
- It helped to improve the economy: it also improves the science and medical field. Give employment to more than 4 million people through the project.
Disadvantages of Human Genome Project
- Increases stress: People could be diagnosed the illnesses that they are susceptible to developing in the future so spend their life worrying about the future.
- Human diversity loss: What makes humanity such a strong race is diversity. Diversity has negative components like genetic defects or mutations to it. diversity also strengthens us. HGP can cause a loss in human diversity.
- It used as a genetic weapon: Many scientists believe that HGP may lead to the development of weapons of mass destruction or genetic weapons. Because HGP gives the genetic information
- Geneism: People could be under pressure because of their genetic problems. Not to have children as a threat of passing on their problematic genes to the next generation.
- Discrimination against individuals having a genetic disease: Life insurance could be impossible to get or more expensive if you have any genetic disease. And employers discriminate against people who are genetically susceptible to getting a disease and be favourable to those who are healthy.
- It could cause genetic racism: Information developed by the Human Genome Project humans can be designed people over “natural” people in a specific way. they could create genetically-specific humans through affordable procedures. It would create racism because societies prefer designed individuals. So racism is not based on sexuality, gender, or skin colour on the basis of the genetic make-up of individuals.
Read More: Hydrophobicity and Lotus Effect
Check your knowledge
- The human genome project determines the complete and accurate sequence of whole human DNA contains3 billion nucleotides.
It also aims to find out all estimated human genomes having 20000 to 25000 genes.
It also aims at several organisms’ entire gene sequencing. which is important in research such as medical research
Human Genome Project was discovered by Francis Collin and Roderick
- It could help the diagnosis of diseases and also prevention of human disease: We can understand more about the human body and how to manage and cure various conditions. By understanding our genetic profile doctors could diagnose problems with more certainty. This would lead to more early detection of our issues.
- Improves medicine: Medicines can be developed based on individual bodies’ reactions to the disease and the treatments. Which becomes more effective because the medicines will be fitted for our specific medical needs and more.
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