Abstract
The Human Genome Project, initiated in 1990, has progressed rapidly in the development of sequencing and bioinformatic technology. It is anticipated that the 3 billion nucleotide sequence of the human genome will be completed by 2005. In the meantime, new genes and their function are being identified, leading to the new field of functional genomics. The genomic information has stimulated the development of commercial firms focused on diagnostics and on gene therapy. Many diseases, including cancer, genetic disorders and some infectious diseases, are being treated with gene therapy in human trials. The predictive quality of DNA diagnostics is raising concerns about third party coverage for pre-existing conditions.
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