The National Human Genome Research Institute of the NIH unveiled a vision for the future of genome research April 14 at a symposium celebrating the 50th anniversary of the description of the DNA double helix. The plan is posted on the Nature magazine Web site’s advance online publication section. Among the planners were 11 UW scientists.

The main areas covered in the plan are:
1. Biology: Elucidating the structure and function of genomes
2. Medicine: Translating genome-based knowledge into health benefits
3. Society: Using genomics to maximize benefits and minimize harm

Within these areas, planners identified 15 grand challenges, including the compilation of a parts list of the information contained in the human genome, such as regulatory elements, recombination signals, and encoded proteins; the creation of computer models of the networks and pathways of gene function; and examining the possible consequences of uncovering genetic contributions to human traits and behaviors.

The UW scientists participating in the future of genomics planning groups were: Melissa Austin, professor of epidemiology; Robin Bennett, genetic counselor and manager of the UW Medical Genetics Clinic; Wylie Burke, professor and chair of medical history and ethics; Phil Green, professor of genome sciences; Arno Motulsky, professor of medicine in the Division of Medical Genetics; Debbie Nickerson, associate professor of genome sciences; Maynard Olson, professor of genome sciences and of medicine; Bonnie Pagon, professor of pediatrics; Scott Ramsey, associate professor of medicine in the Division of General Internal Medicine; Elizabeth Thompson, professor of statistics and biostatistics; and Bob Waterston, professor and chair of genome sciences.

Burke headed the Ethical, Legal and Social Implications Policy Planning Group.