2010 National DNA Day Online Chatroom Transcript

This is just one question from an archive of the National DNA Day Moderated Chat held in April 2010. The NHGRI Director and many genomics experts from across NHGRI took questions from students, teachers and the general public on topics ranging from basic genomic research, to the genetic basis of disease, to ethical questions about genetic privacy.

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Will humans eventually be able to guide our own "evolution" through genetic changes such as longer lifespan, greater athletic ability, or other "improvements"?      Don Hadley, M.S., C.G.C.: I'm currently researching the components of a genetic counseling session, including how people are informed of genetic disorders and how they make decisions regarding genetic testing. Such manipulations of our genetic make-up may be possible, but the more important question is whether we, as humans, should use genetic/genomic knowledge for anything except to prevent or reduce disease. What do you think? Peru High School in IN (12th grade student)

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