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Passage 2: The Human Genome Project
The Human Genome Project (HGP) was an international research initiative
that aimed to map and sequence the entire human genome, comprising the complete set of DNA within human cells. Launched in 1990 and completed in 2003, the HGP represented a landmark achievement in the field of genetics and has had profound implications for medicine, biology, and society. The primary goal of the HGP was to provide a comprehensive understanding of the structure, organization, and function of human genes. By deciphering the sequence of nucleotide bases in human DNA, scientists could identify and catalog the approximately 20,000-25,000 genes encoded in the genome, along with the non-coding regions that regulate gene expression and control cellular processes. The completion of the HGP has facilitated groundbreaking discoveries in genetics, genomics, and personalized medicine. It has enabled researchers to identify genes associated with inherited disorders and susceptibility to diseases, paving the way for improved diagnostic tests, targeted therapies, and preventive interventions. In addition to its biomedical applications, the HGP has provided valuable insights into human evolution, population genetics, and the diversity of life on Earth. Comparative genomics, which involves comparing the genomes of different species, has revealed shared genetic sequences and evolutionary relationships among organisms, shedding light on the origins of genetic diversity and the mechanisms of evolution. Overall, the Human Genome Project represents a milestone in scientific inquiry and collaboration, demonstrating the power of genomics to advance our understanding of human biology and address pressing challenges in healthcare and beyond.