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Human Genome Project Information Archive
1990–2003

Archive Site Provided for Historical Purposes


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Human Genome News Archive Edition
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  Vol.10, No.1-2   February 1999

In this issue...

Available in PDF

Genome Project

In the News

Microbial Genomics

Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues and Educational Resources

Proteomics

Genetics in Medicine

Informatics

Web, Other Resources, Publications

Funding

Meeting Calendars & Acronyms

  • Genome and Biotechnology Meetings
  • Training Courses and Workshops
  • Acronyms

HGN archives and subscriptions

Human Genome Project Information home

ELSI News

On Radio: The DNA Files

On November 2, 1998, an interactive Web site was launched for The DNA Files, a series of nine 1-hour documentaries hosted by John Hockenberry and distributed by National Public Radio. Supported in part by DOE, the series covers such topics as DNA and behavior, prenatal and predictive genetic testing, gene therapy, genetics of human evolution, genetics and biotechnology, and genetics and the law. The Web site [http://www.dnafiles.org], which lists radio stations that will broadcast The DNA Files around the country, provides information about each program, additional resources, and an opportunity for listeners to interact about some ethical issues introduced in the series. [Contact: bariscot@aol.com or jthilman@aol.com]


Innovative Biotechnology Curriculum

An innovative curriculum to boost student enthusiasm and interest in biotechnology has been launched through a partnership involving the National 4-H Council, Monsanto Corporation, and Pioneer Hi-Bred International. Called Fields of Genes: Making Sense of Biotechnology, the curriculum is designed to help teachers provide students in grades 4-12 with a basic understanding of scientific principles that form the foundation of biotechnology. Curriculum activities for elementary students focus on understanding the living and nonliving parts of their world. Middle school students continue to explore and understand genetics, biotechnology, and genetic engineering, while high schoolers are encouraged to plan environmental stewardship activities. [Order leaders' guide (96 pages, Product No. ES0046) from National 4-H Supply Service: 301/961-2934, Fax: -2937]


Short Courses for Biology Teachers

Outreach to K-12 teachers and students is an aim of the new molecular biology teaching laboratory at Pennsylvania State University's Biotechnology Institute. Short courses including lectures and laboratory experience can be scheduled for area teachers on the principles and techniques used in genetic and molecular biology research, especially as they relate to the Human Genome Project. High school biology teachers are particularly encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity. [Contact: Loida Escote-Carlson (814/863-5751, lje6@psu.edu]


Report on Family Attitudes Toward Genetic Testing

Pathways and Barriers to Genetic Testing and Screening: Molecular Genetics Meets the High-Risk Family was submitted to DOE in October 1997 by Troy Duster (University of California) and Diane Beeson (California State University, Hayward). The report resulted from a multiyear study of social processes that occur as families at risk for sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis, and thalassemia encounter genetic testing. These diseases were chosen because they are found primarily in different ethnic and racial groups. Supported by the Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications component of the DOE Human Genome Program, Duster and Beeson's major finding is that all high-risk families, regardless of their cultural backgrounds, adapt the genetic information they are given so that it fits with the divergent values and priorities of family life.


The electronic form of the newsletter may be cited in the following style:
Human Genome Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Human Genome News (v10n1-2).

Human Genome Project 1990–2003

The Human Genome Project (HGP) was an international 13-year effort, 1990 to 2003. Primary goals were to discover the complete set of human genes and make them accessible for further biological study, and determine the complete sequence of DNA bases in the human genome. See Timeline for more HGP history.

Human Genome News

Published from 1989 until 2002, this newsletter facilitated HGP communication, helped prevent duplication of research effort, and informed persons interested in genome research.