2011 National DNA Day Online Chatroom Transcript

This is just one question from an archive of the National DNA Day Moderated Chat held in April 2011. 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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I heard we share more DNA with cows than with primates. Do you suspect this is why we all find cows milk so delicious? If there is a connection, more research of the pig's genome should be in order because, oh boy do people love bacon!      Elliott Margulies, Ph.D.: Now entering the chat is Elliott Margulies. He uses new DNA sequencing technologies to sequence and analyze human genomes and incorporates information about comparatives genomics to learn how differences between human genomes relate to human health. I'm curious to know where you heard this. Because when I look at the cow genome, it is DEFINITELY less similar to humans that another primate's genome (like the chimpanzee or baboon). The pig genome has been sequenced too -- so now you can use the scientific method to test your hypothesis and see if the genes in another organism has anything to do with why we like the food they provide us! Jeff Slowin in PA (11th grade teacher)

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