Detailed map of genome function

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12 years ago the first draft of the Human Genome was completed. However, significant components of human DNA deemed "Junk" had yet to be deciphered. Where originally only 2% of the genome was under analysis, it has been concluded that more like 80% of the three billion pairs of genetic code, comprising DNA, are actually functioning. Recent studies have resulted in the discovery of gene "switches" (responsible for the regulation of gene action) a significant distance from the associated gene, where formerly no "essential" genes had been identified. The correlation between this research and the treatment of genetic diseases is groundbreaking and although it will likely be some time before any significant changes occur, the crucial data provided by "Encode" will certainly impact our future understanding and approach to medicine.

At the rate advancements in genetics are taking place, especially the more controversial aspects of the field, does anyone believe that geneticists and the science community as a whole will take a moments hesitation to consider possible repercussions, or will they merely continue full steam ahead?

I can't seen the link so I'm just going to take a swing at what your post says.

Quote :

does anyone believe that geneticists and the science community as a whole will take a moments hesitation to consider possible repercussions, or will they merely continue full steam ahead?

I personally believe that they should continue although not full steam ahead. What hampers most geneticists, from what I've read, is the Christian community as they see the "toying" around of the human genome as a gateway into cloning which would be "playing god", which is "immoral". Should the Christian community stay out of science, in general, there would be a lot less hesitation as religious ethics make some work "wrong".

Should geneticists ever fully map the human genome, not only could they eliminate genetic/hereditary diseases, but they could likely configure the DNA of a growing fetus for certain features, like purposely giving the baby brown hair and bright green eyes.

But this is just my opinion.

Sorry, there was a glitch in the system that (I think!) I have taken care of... the link that Belinda put at the beginning of her post that might be hidden from you is....
[Only admins are allowed to see this link]
You are not required to use the special "Link" button that shows up along the top bar when you post a message; you can just copy and paste it right into your message. I hope that clears up any problems anyone might have. If it doesn't, or you need help, just let me know in class.

I am very sorry about that...
here is the link again (just copy-pasted), I hope it works!
[Only admins are allowed to see this link]

Links are both glitched up and saying Admins only.

Until I get this sorted out, just go to the BBC News website, and in the top top top right hand corner there is a search box. Do a search for the title of the article and you'll get the link to take you there.

Time to fix the link problem. Now, where did I put that wrench....

The techniques developed for gene mapping have a great impact on curing diseases and improving human life. I think that the science community should continue their research about the 80% of the three billion pairs of genetic code that are actually functioning. However, I strongly believe that they shouldn't meddle with the DNA of a growing fetus for certain physical features, not only because it is not ethical but would people actually participate globally? There is no doubt that the science community will have to spend billions of dollars to pursue their interest.