Genetics: The Science of DNA
Occasionally, our cells make errors when copying our genetic code. Some of these mistakes can cause genes to malfunction, and that can lead to serious physical and mental disorders. Current research in genetics has identified over 6,000 rare genetic disorders (which occur in less than 200,000 people nation-wide) such as cystic fibrosis, psoriasis and Huntington's disease. Although each disorder is rare, on average 1 in 10 people has been diagnosed with a genetic disorder. Many of these disorders have no known treatments, but new posibilities such as gene therapy, which attempts to repair copying mistakes in our DNA, hold the promise for new cures. This search for cures is the focus of Gene Pool; see the rules for more information on how to play.
For information on genetics and disorders in general, please visit:
Genetics Home Reference
Human Genome Project at the Department of Energy
Medicine and the New Genetics
National Organization for Rare Disorders
Gene Therapy and Children
Dolan DNA Learning Center