9781422280751

The information we gain from the human genome has helped us to understand how our bodies work. We can now determine whether or not someone is likely to get certain diseases and even prevent or cure some inherited conditions. ETHICAL QUESTIONS We can already cross-match DNA from tiny samples of body tissue—such as hair, blood, or skin—with the DNA of a known person. This can help us to identify victims of war, disaster, or crime and prove whether people are related to one another. With the possibility of knowing so much information about someone by studying their DNA, we face difficult questions about our own rights and what we should and should not do. Are we entitled to keep our own genetic information private? How will people be affected by knowing they are likely to develop a serious disease? Is it safe or right to make changes to the DNA of any species of plant or animal? Who owns and can make money from genetic information? You will have the chance to explore these and other ethical issues as you work through this book.

A gene is a length of DNA that codes for a specific protein, and is contained in the chromosomes that are part of each cell.

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