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Dr. Francis Collins, director, National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), National Institutes of Health, explains how having a complete gene map will dramatically change our lives. Dr. Collins also answers the question: What is the Human Genome Project? October 20-Everything You Need To Know about Genes Dr. Robert Nussbaum, chief of NHGRI's Genetic Disease Research Branch, discusses key genetic concepts and terms, including DNA, PCR, DNA fingerprinting and cloning. Also discussed is the difference between genes and chromosomes, as well as other useful information for interpreting the genetic revolution. Dr. Dean Hamer, chief, Gene Structure and Regulation, National Cancer Institute’s Laboratory of Biochemistry, talks about the inheritance of human behavior. Topics covered include anxiety, sex, addictions, violence, eating habits, and more. November 3-Mapping and Sequencing: Transcribing the Human Genetic Recipe Dr. Eric Green, chief of NHGRI's Genome Technology Branch explains the how and why behind mapping genes, and what researchers are learning about genetic diseases along the way. November 10-The Genetics Of Cancer Dr. Jeffrey Trent, scientific director, NHGRI and Dr. Lawrence Brody, chief, Molecular Pathogenesis Section, NHGRI, talk about two of the most prevalent forms of cancer—breast and prostate—and new genetic avenues for early detection and treatment. November 17- The Genetics Of Rare Diseases Studying the genetics of rare and seemingly unrelated diseases can result in understanding more common ones. How the rare disorders of bone development are leading to insight into the genetics of arthritis and osteoporosis. Dr. Clair Francamano, chief, Medical Genetics Branch, NHGRI. Dr. Michael Blaese of NHGRI's Clinical Gene Therapy Branch tells how and why gene therapy works, and its implications for diseases such as cancer and AIDS: roadblocks to its use. December 1-Genetic Testing: A Personal View The final speaker in the series is Ms. Barbara Bowles-Biesecker, co-director of the Johns Hopkins/ NHGRI Genetic Counseling Training Program. Once disease-causing genes are identified, the public may have access to genetic testing before treatment is available. Ms. Biesecker discusses the translation of genetic research into medical tests and consequences for family conflict, moral dilemmas, and genetic discrimination. Coordinator/ moderator Jeff Witherly is director of the Office of Science Education and Outreach, NHGRI.
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