The Human Genome Project: prospects and implications for clinical medicine

Article Abstract:

The worldwide scientific undertaking known as the Human Genome Project studies the genetic make-up of several organisms in addition to humans. The information derived from these studies has applications in the identification, characterization and understanding of genes that affect or cause human diseases. The basis of DNA technologies is presented, including cloning, mapping, and the use of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for synthesis of a target DNA sequence. The entire human genome, encoding all the genetic information for replication of the species, contains about 3 billion base pairs (molecular links between the double strands of DNA), of which less than one tenth of 1 percent has been mapped. (Mapping is the association of a particular DNA sequence with a particular physiological function.) Less than 10 percent of human DNA represents genes and their regulators; the functions of the remaining sequences are still a mystery. The different types of maps are discussed, and an example of the physical mapping of human chromosome 7 is outlined. This chromosome contains the gene involved in cystic fibrosis, a progressive disorder of the exocrine glands. The practicality of mapping the DNA of other organisms is examined. The Project's practical implications lie first in the ability to identify and manipulate the genes of normal biology and disease, and second, in better techniques for prenatal diagnosis of defects and for genetic counseling. Ultimately, this map of human DNA should reveal all the information required for the development of human beings; however, many ethical and practical problems remain regarding the use of the information obtained. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Evaluation, Genetic aspects, Human Genome Project, Cystic fibrosis

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Psychiatry

Article Abstract:

The Epidemiologic Catchment Area studies found that 28% of the population has a diagnosable psychiatric disorder. Of those, less than 1/3 seek treatment. Many of the homeless have never had the opportunity to receive any type of care due to bureaucratic barriers. Better case management, individualized treatment and legal reform are necessary to ensure that all people receive appropriate treatment. The psychiatric disorders present in the population can be disabling but are treatable. They represent a serious public health challenge that should be considered by authors of healthcare reform packages.

Practice, Psychiatry

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Prospects for Neurology and Psychiatry

Article Abstract:

Neurologists and psychologists may work together in the future as neurologists uncover the pathological brain processes that causes many types of mental illness. Advances include the ability to record the activity of nerve cells, trace their connections to each other, identify neurotransmitter receptors, and visualize individual nerve cells in brain tissue cultures.

Research, Neurology, Psychiatric research

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