DNA Sequencing

DNA Sequencing Illustration

DNA Sequencing

DNA sequencing works to show the order of the nucleotide bases—adenine, , cytosine,guanine, and thymine—in the molecules of DNA.  The illustration above shows that as the bases come off the slide the light signs through them and they are identified by how the light is refracted by each base thereby identifying the dna sequencing. 

The history or sequencing dna goes back quite a way.  In the beginning stages many people feared what the uses of identifying dna sequencing.  Some conservatives stirred up the idea that dna sequencing was backed by the nazis and others and would lead to all kinds of horrific experimentation and elimination of certain people.  There are possible unethical uses of almost any science and dna sequencing is no exception.  However, the history of the search for understanding our dna has led to some enormously helpful information in understanding and treating disease.

Benefits of DNA Sequencing

As the father of special needs children I have already seen the personal benefit of DNA sequencing.  Two of my children have had a serious genetic anomaly identified and are currently in a study to determine the connection between the DNA abnormality and their disabilities.  This study was only mad possible in 2010 and prior to that they had not identified the chain that would be “normal” in order to determine the abnormality in one of the chromosomes of my children.  I also have a severely disabled nephew for whom I am hoping that dna testing made possible by DNA sequencing could reveal the source of his continued disability.

Another benefit of DNA sequencing is not just diagnosis of disease, but also treatment.  Currently they are able to work on more and more specific drugs and someday in the near future DNA sequencing may result in custom drugs that are manufactured for each individual which would have a serious impact on the side effects caused by mass produced drugs for a global market.

 

 

DNA Sequencing.