Project completed 50 years after DNA discovery.
In 1953, scientists James Watson and Francis Crick made history by describing the double helix shape of DNA, the building blocks of all life.
Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of their discovery, the Human Genome Project was completed in April 2003, more than 2 years ahead of schedule, with 99% of human genes identified.
Like a book, the genome consists of chromosomes, or chapters, comprised of genes, or words. The genes contain DNA, or letters, a series of chemicals that determine everything from hair color to blood type to disease risk.
From DNA to diagnosis — researchers' growing ability to read this "book" has the potential to improve health and medical care.
At present, more than 1,400 genes linked to diseases have been identified compared to fewer than 100 in 1990, when the project began.
Scientists have just begun to read the "words" encoded in our genome. It holds potential answers to the devel-opment, diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, heart disease, cancer and many other serious, chronic diseases.
The hope is to eventually offer care providers the ability to easily detect problems and refine treatments based on a patient’s genetic makeup.
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Public awareness rises. The success of the genome project has made DNA a part of our daily vocabulary. A poll conducted in 2003 revealed that 60% of American adults correctly defined DNA, and two-thirds knew that it stands for deoxyribonucleic acid. Compare that to 1996, when 21% of adults in the U.S. were able to pass the DNA quiz. |