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31 Jul 2010 11:09

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Tech: Guy behind Human Genome Project: It’s “useless information”

  • We have, in truth, learned nothing from the genome other than probabilities. How does a 1 or 3 percent increased risk for something translate into the clinic? It is useless information.
  • Human Genome Project researcher Craig Venter • Regarding the end result (as of right now) of all the work he did with the Human Genome Project. “We couldn’t even be certain from my genome what my eye color was,” he also claims. “Isn’t that sad?” These are harsh words because of the fact that he spent so much of his life working on this project. But it doesn’t mean it’s a total wash – Venter is looking to use his history in genetic research to help create new forms of energy. Which, let’s face it, would be cool. source
Posted by Ernie Smith • 0 Comments • Permalink

13 Jun 2010 11:51

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Tech: The Human Genome Project didn’t cure cancer after all, guys

  • $3
    billion     amount that was spent to decode the human genome, a project finished a decade ago
  • not
    much     the project’s benefit to the medical world since then (its original selling point) source
  • » Clarification: While the completion of the Human Genome Project led to Bill Clinton saying that it will “revolutionize the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of most, if not all, human diseases,” it hasn’t led to direct cures but perhaps more informed answers. It’s becoming clear to some that rare variants, not common genes, are likely the cause of many diseases. Meaning it’s not a silver bullet but a definite starting point. “Genomics is a way to do science, not medicine,” said Harold Varmus, the incoming chair of the National Cancer Institute.
Posted by Ernie Smith • 4 Comments • Permalink
 
 
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