Focus on genes

The human genome contains 20 000-25 000 genes. What are these genes, and how are they controlled?

news

Researchers have catalogued millions of genetic differences between 17 strains of mice. The result is a 'genetic blueprint' of variation in the mouse genome that will help drive forward our understanding of human biology. 15/09/11

You can't use this map to find out where you're going, but it does tell us a lot about where we came from: it's the world's most advanced human genetic map, as constructed by a consortium of scientists. 21/07/11

features

Image for An open and shut case
Modifications to DNA and histones add additional complexity by controlling access to DNA sequence. 31/01/06
Image for Small RNA: big news
Are genes the only interesting bits of the human genome? Protein-coding genes have hogged our attention, but now tiny RNAs are where the action is. 01/10/05

background

Image for Epigenetics
Changes to DNA and its associated proteins can alter gene expression without altering the DNA sequence. 08/01/03
Image for Gene expression
Genes are transcribed into RNA and then translated to make proteins. 08/01/03
"Only a decade ago, most scientists thought humans had about 100 000 genes." Francis Collins
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