Introduction
A technician tests DNA samples at Pathway Genomics, a San Diego maker of direct-to-consumer genetics test kits. Plans to sell the kits at Walgreens drug stores stalled after the Food and Drug Administration questioned their reliability. (Bloomberg via Getty Images/Sandy Huffaker)
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Ever since scientists began to decipher the human genome in the 1990s, hopes have run high that unraveling the genetic code would rapidly revolutionize health care. But while gene research has changed scientists' understanding of many diseases, practical applications remain few. Genetic tests for single-gene diseases such as cystic fibrosis are available, and doctors can more precisely pinpoint the kind of cancer a patient has by analyzing genes. Gene tests can also predict how patients will respond to some drugs. However, no actual gene therapy has been approved for human use, and researchers now know that diseases such as heart disease, Alzheimer's and adult-onset diabetes usually result from a complex interaction among numerous genes and a person's environment. These findings cast doubt on whether current genetic tests for such prevalent diseases are accurate and whether gene science makes it any easier to find treatments.
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Jun. 14, 2019 |
Consumer Genetic Testing |
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Apr. 26, 2019 |
Manipulating Human Genes |
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Sep. 15, 2017 |
Medical Breakthroughs |
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Jun. 19, 2015 |
Manipulating the Human Genome |
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May 31, 2013 |
Patenting Human Genes |
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Jan. 21, 2011 |
Genes and Health |
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May 15, 2009 |
Reproductive Ethics |
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Oct. 22, 2004 |
Cloning Debate |
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May 18, 2001 |
Designer Humans |
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May 12, 2000 |
Human Genome Research |
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Dec. 17, 1999 |
Embryo Research |
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May 28, 1999 |
DNA Databases |
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Apr. 03, 1998 |
Biology and Behavior |
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May 09, 1997 |
The Cloning Controversy |
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Dec. 08, 1995 |
Gene Therapy's Future |
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Apr. 08, 1994 |
Reproductive Ethics |
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Oct. 18, 1991 |
Gene Therapy |
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Aug. 16, 1991 |
Fetal Tissue Research |
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Jun. 30, 1989 |
Solving Crimes with Genetic Fingerprinting |
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Apr. 03, 1987 |
Biotechnology Developments |
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Jan. 10, 1986 |
Genetic Breakthroughs |
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Dec. 26, 1980 |
Genetic Business |
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Mar. 25, 1977 |
Genetic Research |
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May 19, 1971 |
Human Engineering |
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Aug. 20, 1969 |
Human Intelligence |
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Dec. 13, 1967 |
Genetics and the Life Process |
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