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The Human Genome Project
Why unlocking the secrets of human DNA was only the beginning

SC: What are the benefits of the project?
KS: Many diseases, including certain types of cancers, are the result of mutations in genes. The project will allow scientists and medical personnel to determine how mutated genes differ from normal ones.
This knowledge can be used to detect genetic problems earlier than is currently possible. It also opens the door to the development of medicines designed to help patients with specific genetic backgrounds.
The information may eventually help with disease prevention through gene therapy—a process where mutated genes are replaced with normal ones.
SC: Are there ethical issues surrounding the project?
KS: The aspect of the project causing the most concern is also the most beneficial. It allows the genes of individuals or people groups to be compared. While there are good medical reasons for doing this, there are also a lot of questions about privacy and fairness. Should insurance companies and employers be allowed to access the genetic information of their customers and employees? If so, there is a lot of potential for discrimination based upon genetic differences.
Mapping human DNA is really only the beginning. The project has created both opportunities and challenges that we will have to face for years to come.