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What do we gain from the project?

The project can give us many benefits that we can anticipate and others that will surprise us. The detailed DNA information will give us a better understanding of the structure, function, and organisation of DNA in chromosomes. Information generated and technologies developed will revolutionize future biological explorations.


Molecular Medicine

  • improved diagnosis of disease
  • earlier detection of genetic disease
  • rational drug design
  • gene therapy
  • pharmacogenomics "custom drugs"

Detailed genome maps aid researchers in finding genes associated with genetic conditions including Alzheimer's disease, and familial breast cancer. Medical researchers will also be able to cure diseases through gene therapy.

 

Microbial Genomics

  • new energy sources (biofuels)
  • environmental monitoring to detect pollutants
  • protection from biological and chemical warfare
  • safe, efficient toxic waste cleanup
  • understanding disease vulnerabilities and revealing drug targets

Microbial Genome Program, created by DOE, helps sequence the genomes of bacteria used in energy production, etc. The knowledge gained from these bacteria can help us developed new energy-related biotechnologies, and to keep a cleaner environment.

Risk Assessment
  • assess health damage and risks caused by radiation exposure
  • assess health damage and risks caused by exposure to mutagenic chemicals and cancer-causing toxins
  • reduce the likelihood of heritable mutations

Human genome gives us a better understanding of exposure to toxic agents in term of cancer risks, and how some people are more resistance to these toxic agents due to their genetic differences.

Bioarchaeology, Anthropology, Evolution, and Human Migration

  • study evolution through germline mutations in lineages
  • study migration of different populations groups based on female genetic inheritance
  • study mutations on the Y chromosome to trace lineage and migration of males
  • compare breakpoints in the evolution of mutations with ages of populations and historical events

Understanding genomics makes us aware that we are very similar to other animals on the genetic level and new insights about the relationships among the three kingdoms of life.

DNA Forensics (Identification)

  • identify potential suspects whose DNA may match evidence left at crime scenes
  • exonerate persons wrongly accused of crimes
  • identify crime and catastrophe victims
  • establish paternity and other family relationships
  • identify endangered and protected species as an aid to wildlife officials
  • detect bacteria and other organisms that may pollute air, water, soil, and food
  • match organ donors with recipients in transplant programs
  • determine pedigree for seed or livestock breeds
  • authenticate consumables such as caviar and wine

The examination of DNA can allow us to precisely identify an individual. Forensic scientists can use the data to create a DNA profile or DNA fingerprint for that individual.

Agriculture, Livestock Breeding, and Bioprocessing

  • disease, insect, and drought resistant crops
  • healthier, more productive, disease-resistant farm animals
  • more nutritious produce
  • biopesticides
  • edible vaccines incorporated into food products
  • new environment cleanup uses for plant like tobacco

With this knowledge, we can created better plants with built-in disease resistance. We can also create bacterial enzyme that can break down explosives or other waste that would ordinary take thousands of years to break down in the ground.