The Human Genome Project:



Playing God or a Benefit to Humanity?

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The Human Genome Project (HGP) is an international project to sequence the human genome.  This research is being conducted by the US Department of Energy, the National Institute of Health, the National Science Foundation, and various private organizations.  Researchers are attempting to sequence approximately 3% of the human DNA which makes up an estimated 80,000 genes.  The goals of this project, slated to last fifteen years, are:

• the completion of a genetic linkage map,
• the completion of a physical map,
• the identification of specific genes on these maps,
• the completion of genome sequencing of model organisms,
• the development of new biotechnological methods and equipment,
• the development of database tools for managing and interpreting project data, and
• the exploration of ethical, legal, and social implications of the project.

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History and Progress	Background information and the latest advances in the HGP.
Process	Methods used in gene sequencing.
Pros and Cons	The benefits and disadvantages created by the HGP.
Case Studies	Some possible scenarios that may arise from genetic testing.
Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues	Current questions and legislation concerning the HGP.
FAQs	Questions and definitions concerning genetics.
Conclusions	Final thoughts.
Additional Information	Links for more information on these topics.

The purpose of this site is to give you some useful information about the Human Genome Project and to convince you of its significant value to humanity.

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Authors:   Shilpa Bhagat                Laura Braack    

Chem 465 Home Page

Last Updated:  December 4, 1998

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