The Human Genome

• The Human Genome is the complete set of genetic material present in a human cell. It consists of 23 pairs of chromosomes, which hold the DNA.

• Understanding the Human Genome helps us to understand how genes control physical and functional traits. Genetic variations lead to the diversity we see in humans.

• A gene is a section of DNA that codes for a particular protein. These proteins determine our characteristics.

• A genome is not only composed of genes. A large proportion of the DNA in the human genome is non-coding DNA. It does not code for proteins but can regulate gene activity and play other roles.

• The Human Genome Project, completed in 2003, aimed to collect and analyse the DNA sequence of the entire human genome. Its findings have greatly improved our understanding of genetic diseases and potential treatments.

• Genetic variation within the human genome occurs through mutation, meiosis and sexual reproduction. Mutation is a change in the DNA sequence and can occur naturally or due to environmental factors.

• Variations in our genome make us unique and allow populations to evolve over time. Natural selection acts upon these variations.

• Genomic information can be used to predict an individual’s predisposition to certain diseases, which is the basis of personalised medicine.

• Techniques such as gene therapy and genetic engineering, which alter an individual’s genome, are rapidly advancing fields of science.

• An individual’s genome can be used in forensic science to identify them, as each person’s genome is unique to them.

• Ethical issues arise with the potential misuse of genomic information, such as genetic discrimination or privacy invasion.