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Mapping Life
(Genomics)
Genomics is the use of the information collected in The Human Genome Project and
similar projects for other organisms. Once the sequence of DNA that makes a gene is
known, the information can be used to repair problems or improve the organism.
Plant genes can be changed to make the plant more resistant to drought, to better
withstand attacks by pests, or to use nutrients more efficiently. That could save
resources, like fertilizer and water. Animal genes can be altered to improve resistance
to disease or increase the strength of work animals. Also, the ability of food animals to
convert feed to meat or produce a more nutritious meat can be made more efficient.
Human genomics shows great promise in health and medicine. At the present time we
know about some mutations that can cause health problems. Genomics offers the
possibility of correcting defective genes and eliminating those health problems. This
may be done by inserting correct genes that override the effect of the damaged gene,
or it may be done by inserting the “good” gene in the egg before mitosis produces the
complete human.
Bioinformatics is the convergence (coming together) of Computer Science and
Genetics. It is important for genomic data to be organized and stored in ways that can
be accessed and manipulated by genomic researchers.
Questions to Talk about and/or Research:
Why would some people be opposed to modifying plant or animal genes?
What might be some dangers of modifying a plant’s genes?
What does GMO stand for?
Find a food item labeled non-GMO and explain why some people would prefer it.
Research Ideas
Genetic mapping biotechnology GMO