Abstract
A New Human Genome Sequence Paves the Way for Individualized Genomics
Highlights
Just six years ago, two draft versions of the human genome were published, an achievement widely hailed as one of the most audacious scientific undertakings in history
Two draft versions of the human genome were published, an achievement widely hailed as one of the most audacious scientific undertakings in history. Both of these versions are composite sequences derived from the haploid genomes—the single set of 23 chromosomes packaged into the sperm or egg of each parent—of anonymous donors
James Watson, the original director of the Human Genome Project and chancellor of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, has allowed his genome to be sequenced. He received a DVD documenting his personal sequence in a ceremony at Baylor College of Medicine in May 2007. (The report on his genome had not been published at press time.) With these sequences, scientists have a powerful tool for exploring the genetic contribution to human biology and disease risk
Summary
Two draft versions of the human genome were published, an achievement widely hailed as one of the most audacious scientific undertakings in history. J. Craig Venter, whose technical innovations at Celera helped complete the draft sequences far ahead of schedule, published his entire genome in collaboration with 30 colleagues in this issue of PLoS Biology. Having the complete sequence of an individual human being will allow scientists to ask different questions about the nature and origin of human genetic variation.
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