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SYDNEY: Ten years ago, two rival teams of scientists published – one in Science and one in Nature – drafts of the human genome sequence for the first time. It was February 12, 2001, Charles Darwin’s birthday.
Since then we’ve come to discover how genetically similar we are to basically every living creature, from Neanderthals to frogs to roundworms, how utterly complex some of the most basic-looking creatures on Earth are and can synthesise DNA recipes at the push of a button.
“We are less clearly defined than we once thought, less set apart from the rest of life, but uniquely able to probe the data and ponder the questions. And, being humans, we let our discomfort give way to wonder. Who are we, and where will we go next?” said Ronald Cole-Turner, professor of theology and ethics at the Pittsburg Theological Seminary, in Science’s Human Genome 10th Birthday issue.
And yet, despite the seeds having been planted ten years ago, prompting medical schools and research centres to invest tens of millions of dollars each in genomic research, we’re still waiting for the revolution. Applications for DNA-based approaches to medicine are scant, and most public health reviews of those that exist offer little encouragement.
“Having the complete human DNA sequence hasn't yet produced big advances in primary medicine, prompting some to ask what's delaying the genomic revolution in health care,” said Science’s deputy news editor Eliot Marshall.
We’re still very much at the dawn of our understanding of nature’s blueprint, but we have a great deal of discoveries with which to mark this occasion. Below you'll find a whole package of articles on Cosmos Online:
Daphnia has not disappointed. This humble water flea, both tiny and transparent, may not look like much, but it’s the first crustacean to have its genome read, and has revealed a whopping 30,000 genes – more than we have.
Transgenic animals create drugs in milk
Genetic tinkering is turning ordinary farm animals into insulin-churning, cancer fighting pharmaceutical factories, and a slew of drugs made in transgenic animals is poised to enter the market.
Sponges hold the complex blueprint for vertebrates
Like Daphnia, the unassuming sea sponge might look simple, but inside that a blob with no eyes, no nervous system, no muscle, no gut, no circulatory system and no tissues lies a surprising genetic tool kit.
Is Craig Venter the new Henry Ford?
In early 2010, Venter announced the creation of his 'synthetic life', a cell with an entirely manufactured genome. Venter calls it the software of life and what it can become is the world's smallest production line.
That big gene problem
Junk DNA was once thought to be little more than gibberish. But it may actually be the software that controls a complex organism.
Genetically linked friends
It is not just shared interests that link friends together, but also their genes, according to recent research into the genetic basis of friendships.
Coded for success
The Argentine ant has had its genome sequenced, and has provided clues as to why the highly invasive species has such acute senses and a built-in genetic shield against harmful substances.
Human Genome Advances Delay
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“Having the complete human DNA sequence hasn't yet produced big advances in primary medicine, prompting some to ask what's delaying the genomic revolution in health care,”
Bottom Line:
Doctors and Big Pharma.
They aren't in this business to help people, they are in it to line their pockets.
First, they must figure out how to make big money on it, then the progress will advance.
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