DNA Data

What can we do with DNA?

The Human Genome Project provided a map of all the nucleotide sequences in a typical humans DNA.

Over 6 billion base pairs in length!

​

​Sequencing the genome

How is it done?

​DNA fingerprinting technology was the beginning.

How is it done now?

Scientists can use computer algorithms to analyze differences in DNA from different sources.

Regions that are different between species can be identified.

Genetic similarities can also be observed.

Regions with very similar sequences in all organisms are most likely conserved genes essential for life.

​

​Uses of Genomic Data

Multiple Choice

Which animal should you expect to have gene sequences most similar to humans?

• chimpanzee

• mouse

• snake

• eagle

Very large sample sizes allow scientists to detect genetic differences between healthy and diseased individuals.

This further helps us map specific genes to functional proteins.

​

​In medicine

Gene therapy can be used to treat disease at the genetic level.

Open Ended

Why is a large sample size important for identifying genes that may be associated with disease?