A New Five-Year Plan for the U.S. Human Genome Project

Abstract

The U.S. Human Genome Project is part of an international effort to develop genetic and physical maps and determine the DNA sequence of the human genome and the genomes of several model organisms. Thanks to advances in technology and a tightly focused effort, the project is on track with respect to its initial 5-year goals. Because 3 years have elapsed since these goals were set, and because a much more sophisticated and detailed understanding of what needs to be done and how to do it is now available, the goals have been refined and extended to cover the first 8 years (through September 1998) of the 15-year genome initiative....Four areas were identified by advisers to the ELSI program for initial emphasis: privacy of genetic information, safe and effective introduction of genetic information in the clinical setting, fairness in the use of genetic information, and professional and public education....