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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How do you find cures for DNA with diseases?      Elizabeth Kramer, C.G.C.: I am a prenatal genetic counselor in a busy perinatal practice in the Washington, D.C. area. I see many different types of high-risk prenatal patients on a daily basis. There are many ways to use information about DNA to treat/cure diseases. Some examples are: A person's genetic makeup affects how their body breaks down certain medications, so if you look at their genetics, you may be able to pinpoint which drug works better for them. Genetics can affect how someone responds to chemotherapy in cancer treatment. Genome research is also being used in the development of better drugs that are highly effective without causing serious side effects. Pittsburgh CAPA in PA (9th grade student)

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