Impact of the human genome project

Abstract EN

June 2000 heralded the first draft of the human genome and with it a tremendous amount of public attention to this monumental achievement.

Amidst the excitement regarding the potential impact on clinical medicine and anticipating “the development of rational strategies for minimizing or preventing disease phenotypes altogether” (4) there has also arisen concern about the ethical use of this new technology as well as a healthy dose of skepticism about its ultimate application to clinical care(9).

Clearly, as technology continues to elucidate new genes and their function, both in normal development and pathology, questions and concerns about practical applications of this information will continue to arise.

The goal of this article is to review the impact of the discoveries of Human Genome Project (HGP) on the practice of genetic counseling and clinical care as well as to discuss the potential ethical dilemmas, which may arise.