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4.2 describe and explain the limitations of data obtained from the Human Genome Project
describe and explain the limitations of data obtained from the Human Genome Project
- It is now believed that only approximately 3% of the DNA in human chromosomes codes for proteins. The other 97% of the DNA consists of non-coding regions (sometimes called ‘junk DNA’), whose functions may include providing chromosomal structural integrity and regulating where, when, and in what quantity proteins are made. The use of about 50% of this ‘”junk DNA” is not known.
- Some genes are found inside other genes, thus making their identification difficult.
- Non-coding DNA is used in DNA fingerprinting.
- It may be a long time before scientists totally understand the role of every gene, its interaction with other genes and how DNA relates to such things as behaviour, brain function and other aspects of neurobiology.
- Some other limitations of the Human Genome Project involve ethical, legal and social implications such as:
- fairness in the use of genetic information
- privacy and confidentiality
- psychological impact and stigmatisation
- education, standards and quality control
- commercialisation
- conceptual and philosophical implications.