This 13-minute video shows students how the human genome was first sequenced during the 1990s, touching off an initially optimistic search for gene-based solutions to curing common diseases. As scientists sought to quickly convert the genome into cures, they soon discovered that most diseases are caused by a complex array of genes, and that epigenetic factors complicate the search for a simple genetic solution. The video is most useful for lessons on heredity, gene expression and epigenetics.
Finding the Code: The Race to Sequence the Human Genome and What It Means
One of biology’s most spectacular achievements – the race to sequence the human genome – was billed as a way to end disease. Here’s where it led.
For teachers
- Lesson plan 1: Biotechnology: Sequencing the Human Genome
- Read transcript
- Book a producer
- Producer: Jill Rosenbaum
- Editor: Sandrine Isambert
- Associate Producer: Meral Agish
- Associate Producer: Olivia Katrandjian
For Educators
Subjects
Lesson Plan 1: Biotechnology: Sequencing the Human Genome