Biomedical Research in the Genomic Era
With the sequencing of the genomes of Homo sapiens and a wide array of other organisms, biology has emerged as a truly quantitative science. Researchers from all realms of biology - from botany to zoology - can now tap vast troves of genomic information available in free, public databases. Still, what excites me the most is the potential of this genome-based, quantitative approach to transform biomedical research and, ultimately, health care.
I am scientist, but also a physician. Since the early deliberations about the Human Genome Project nearly 20 years ago, I have dreamed of the day when we would be able to apply the tools of genomics to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of common diseases. Successfully sequencing the genomes of human and other strategically selected organisms represents a major step, but a first step nonetheless.
The recently completed map of human genetic ...
