Acquiring a map, a sequence, and an increased understanding of the human genome merits a special effort that should be organized and funded specifically for this purpose. Such a special effort in the next two decades will greatly enhance progress in human biology and medicine.
"The technical problems associated with mapping and sequencing the human and other genomes are sufficiently great that a scientifically sound program should begin with a diversified, sustained effort to improve our ability to analyze complex DNA molecules. Although the needed capabilities do not yet exist, the broad outlines of how they could be developed are clear. Prospects are therefore good that the required advanced DNA technologies would emerge from a focused effort that emphasizes pilot projects and technological development. Once established, these technologies would not only make the complete analysis of the human and other genomes feasible, but would also revolutionize many other areas of ...
