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Ch. 22 - Applications of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
Klug - Concepts of Genetics 12th Edition
Klug12th EditionConcepts of Genetics ISBN: 9780135564776Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksKlug 12th EditionCh. 22 - Applications of Genetic Engineering and BiotechnologyProblem 8
Chapter 22, Problem 8

Might it make sense someday to sequence every newborn's genome at the time of birth? What are the potential advantages and concerns of this approach?

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1
Understand the concept of genome sequencing: Genome sequencing is the process of determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism's genome. For humans, this involves identifying the order of approximately 3 billion base pairs that make up our DNA.
Identify potential advantages of sequencing a newborn's genome: This could include early detection of genetic disorders, personalized medical care based on genetic predispositions, and the ability to take preventive measures for diseases that may develop later in life.
Consider the ethical and privacy concerns: Sequencing a newborn's genome raises questions about consent (since the newborn cannot provide it), the potential misuse of genetic information, and the long-term storage and security of such sensitive data.
Evaluate the cost and accessibility: Assess whether genome sequencing at birth is financially feasible on a large scale and whether it would be accessible to all populations, avoiding disparities in healthcare.
Discuss the implications for healthcare systems: Consider how integrating genome sequencing into routine newborn care might impact healthcare infrastructure, including the need for genetic counseling and the potential for overdiagnosis or unnecessary interventions.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Genomic Sequencing

Genomic sequencing is the process of determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism's genome. This technology allows for the identification of genetic variations that can influence health, disease susceptibility, and response to treatments. In the context of newborns, sequencing could provide valuable insights into inherited conditions and guide early interventions.
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Ethical Considerations

The ethical considerations surrounding genomic sequencing of newborns include issues of consent, privacy, and potential discrimination. Parents may not fully understand the implications of having their child's genome sequenced, and there are concerns about how this sensitive information could be used by employers or insurance companies. Balancing the benefits of early detection with these ethical dilemmas is crucial.
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Public Health Implications

Sequencing every newborn's genome could have significant public health implications, such as the ability to identify and manage genetic disorders early in life. This proactive approach could lead to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare costs over time. However, it also raises questions about resource allocation and the potential for unequal access to genomic medicine.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

Sequencing the human genome, the development of microarray technology, and personal genomics promise to improve our understanding of normal and abnormal cell behavior. How are these approaches dramatically changing our understanding and treatment of complex diseases such as cancer?

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Textbook Question

A couple with European ancestry seeks genetic counseling before having children because of a history of cystic fibrosis (CF) in the husband's family. ASO testing for CF reveals that the husband is heterozygous for the Δ508 mutation and that the wife is heterozygous for the R117 mutation. You are the couple's genetic counselor. When consulting with you, they express their conviction that they are not at risk for having an affected child because they each carry different mutations and cannot have a child who is homozygous for either mutation. What would you say to them?

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Textbook Question

As genetic testing becomes widespread, medical records will contain the results of such testing. Who should have access to this information? Should employers, potential employers, or insurance companies be allowed to have this information? Would you favor or oppose having the government establish and maintain a central database containing the results of individuals' genome scans?

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Textbook Question

Which of the examples of genetic testing below are prognostic tests? Which are diagnostic?

Individual sequencing (personal genomics) identifies a mutation associated with Alzheimer's disease.

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Textbook Question

Which of the examples of genetic testing below are prognostic tests? Which are diagnostic?

ASO testing determines that an individual is a carrier for the mutant β-globin allele (βˢ) found in sickle-cell anemia.

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Textbook Question

Which of the examples of genetic testing below are prognostic tests? Which are diagnostic?

DNA sequencing of a breast tumor reveals mutations in the BRCA1 gene.

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