genome at 10 years

Welcome! We at n3 science communications are interested in talking about science. We created this blog to start a dialog about current scientific topics. Since the sequencing of the human genome is celebrating its 10 year anniversary, we thought we'd start there. Please share your thoughts and comments! We'd love to hear from you!

There has been much talk recently about sequencing the genome and the treasure trove it was supposed to provide. Yes, it has been 10 years since the first human genome was sequenced and no, we don't have tailored medicines and the answers to what genes are altered in every disease state, but we have come a long way! It is truly amazing to listen to discussions about how in a matter of a few years, we will be able to sequence a person's genome for $300 - 500. (The first genome sequenced cost billions!) Quite honestly, that is truly remarkable. While there is a long way to go before we understand all the ins and outs of how genes control our health and well-being, it is awe-inspiring to think that it was only 1952 when Watson and Crick identified the structure of DNA.

Scientifically, we now understand that there are less genes encoded in the DNA than originally thought. Researchers now have a tremendous amount of information about a particular gene and can understand how that gene contributes to the development of disease. We also understand how similar and dissimilar genes can be. This aids in identifying what genes could be targeted when new medicines are developed and how to target just one gene and not other genes that are closely related. This will eventually lead to a decrease in unwanted drug side effects. Beyond the health and science benefits of this project, the computer technology developed to complete this project was astounding.

There will be a lot of work to do, but with the latest technology, speed and accuracy of sequencing is improving. This does begin many conversations about ethics and how to handle this data. It also drives home to me just how important understanding science and what this means really is in our society.