Computers only understand binary code (0 and 1). Still, we can use Google to search for our personal information. Similarly, the structure of our DNA is represented by sequences of molecules labeled A, C, G and T. In this eye-opening article, the Guardian argues that we'll soon be able to search our personal genome for a susceptibility to a certain disease. This is not as far-fetched as it sounds. After all, the National Institute of Health (NIH) is already looking at the $1,000 genome. And prices will inevitably drop. Soon, you'll have all your personal genome, your code of life, on a CD-ROM.
This raises difficult and ethical questions. Will the government, the insurance companies, your employer or your life partner be able to access your personal genome? Frightening, isn't? Read this overview for some essential excerpts of this must-read article. It also contains some extra references about what might become a major concern soon.
This raises difficult and ethical questions. Will the government, the insurance companies, your employer or your life partner be able to access your personal genome? Frightening, isn't? Read this overview for some essential excerpts of this must-read article. It also contains some extra references about what might become a major concern soon.
| :: posted by Roland Piquepaille, 2:50 PM |
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