TED-Ed: The race to sequence the human genome - Tien Nguyen

The Human Genome Project, launched in 1990, aimed to sequence the entire human genome over 15 years with $3 billion in public funds. In 1998, Celera, a private company, entered the race, promising to complete the task faster and cheaper. Both teams used different sequencing strategies: the Human Genome Project employed a hierarchical shotgun approach, while Celera used whole genome shotgun sequencing. Despite their differences, both teams published working drafts of over 90% of the human genome in 2001, ahead of schedule. The Human Genome Project's open data sharing accelerated research and fostered international collaboration. The project has since led to significant advances in genomics, though understanding gene functions remains a challenge.

What was the primary goal of the Human Genome Project initiated in 1990?

• To sequence the genomes of all living organisms

• To create a global database of genetic diseases

• To develop new genetic engineering techniques

• To map the entire human genome

What was the main difference between the Human Genome Project's and Celera's sequencing strategies?

• The involvement of international research centers

• The use of different sequencing technologies

• The decision to map the genome before sequencing

• The focus on specific genes rather than the entire genome

Which sequencing method did the Human Genome Project primarily use?

• CRISPR-Cas9 sequencing

• Whole genome shotgun sequencing

• Hierarchical shotgun sequencing

• Next-generation sequencing

What was a significant outcome of the Human Genome Project's data-sharing policy?

• It led to the identification of new species

• It restricted access to genetic information

• It delayed the publication of the genome drafts

• It accelerated the pace of genetic research

What is one of the ongoing challenges in genomics research mentioned in the video?

• Mapping the genomes of extinct species

• Sequencing genomes faster than before

• Understanding the function and control of genes

• Reducing the cost of genome sequencing