PEDIATRICS Vol. 84 No. 4 October 1989, pp. A86
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CHROMOSOME CARTOGRAPHY

The new Bush budget. . .calls for funding of about $100 million for what has come to be known as the Human Genome Initiative.

The human genome is complex.

On all the chromosomes, there are between 50,000 and 100,000 genes encoding information that controls human growth and accounts for everything from hair and eye color to some aspects of personality and proneness to certain diseases.

Among the chromosomes scheduled for initial exploration . . . is the 21st chromosome because it is believed to be linked to Alzheimer's disease and Down's syndrome. All the body's genes together make up the human genome. Microbiologists need to know the sequence of the estimated three billion DNA subunits; so far, only about 1,500 human genes have been identified.

Ethicists are worried that such knowledge will exacerbate prejudices against individuals with "non-normal" genes, such as the handicapped or some unborn infants.

A renowned MIT biologist . . . raises a more practical concern: "Megaprojects are inviting targets for the political control of science". . . . Indeed, the idea of mapping the human genome is already under political pressure in Europe.

The Human Genome Initiative will be a strong test of the U.S.'s ability to shape and implement science policy. It may well invite attack from those who are fearful of or hostile to the future. It should also attract the active support of those willing to defend the future.