| Genetics Overview
A New Scientific Frontier
 In the summer of 2000, government and private sector scientists
joined together to make a historic announcement — they had completed a map of the
30,000 to 50,000 genes that comprise the human genome.
By mapping the human genome, we are moving toward a powerful new understanding of human
health. Scientists strongly believe the achievement will turn out to be one of the greatest
contributions to science in the 21st century.
This new emphasis on genetics is transforming the way we approach medicine. Defining the
human genome will give us the ability to identify, treat, and ultimately prevent diseases
in ways never before imagined. During this century, we will be able to develop new therapies
for diseases that have plagued humans for generations, from cancer to heart disease, from
Alzheimer disease to diabetes.
Genetics and Autism
During the past decade, scientists have made significant breakthroughs in understanding the
genetics of autism. Researchers are now focusing on specific chromosomal regions that may
contain autism-related genes. This has been accomplished by studying chromosomal abnormalities
in individuals with autism, and by screening each chromosome for evidence of genes associated
wth autism.
Recent Investigations of Chromosomal Regions and Candidate Genes
Although suggestive evidence for the existence of autism-related genes has been found for several
chromosomal regions, researchers are currently focusing on five different chromosomes: 2, 3, 7, 15
and X.
More...
|
