2009 National DNA Day Online Chatroom Transcript

This is just one question from an archive of the National DNA Day Moderated Chat held in April 2009. 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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If found early enough, could certain DNA diseases be prevented of fixed in a fetus?      Toni Pollin, M.S., Ph.D.: I have a Master's degree and board certification in genetic counseling and a Ph.D. in human genetics. My research interests include identifying genetic factors in common complex diseases. While it's not possible to change the genetic makeup of a fetus, in a few rare cases, the impact of genetically caused or influenced conditions can be minimized, for example fetal surgery for spina bifida or maternal treatment with vitamin B12 to reduce problems associated with some forms of a rare disorder called methymalonic acidemia in the baby. East Haven High School in CT (10th grade student)

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