How many genes are in the human genome?
The human genome has just over 3 billion DNA base pairs encoding 750 MB of information and containing 20,000-25,000 protein-coding genes. This is substantially less than initial estimates of 100,000 or more. The number of human genes became clear with the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003. While its goal was to sequence the human genome, another important task of the project was to determine the number of genes, their locations, and give an idea as to their function. Genes are long stretches of DNA that form the most basic unit of heredity. Variations on genes are called an allele. For instance, it is believed that at least one gene pair dictates human hair color, and depending on the combination of alleles, someone has either black hair, brown hair, red hair, blond hair, or other variations in between. Because the processes of genetic expression are complex, we still have a lot to learn before we know what all 20,000+ genes do and how every feature of human beings relates
Which genes are commonly associated with genetic diseases? How many mobile elements, simple sequence repeats, or protein kinases are encoded by the genome? What are the largest genes and proteins? How similar are human proteins to those of mouse, yeast, or bacteria? A new handbook, A Short Guide to the Human Genome, answers these and other commonly asked questions. Written in question-and-answer format, it is geared towards all working scientists and teachers in the life sciences. It is accessible to those working outside the field of genomics, and will be a handy resource for anyone, including genome scientists, who seeks a concise summary of basic facts about the human genome. “The completion of the human genome sequence is one of the great accomplishments of the biological sciences,” writes the author, Stewart Scherer, in the Preface to the book. “Yet, even with the complete sequence and its extensive annotation, it can be surprisingly difficult to find answers to seemingly simple q
Which genes are commonly associated with genetic diseases? How many mobile elements, simple sequence repeats, or protein kinases are encoded in the genome? What are the largest genes and proteins? How similar are human proteins to those of mouse, yeast, or bacteria? Although the human genome has been sequenced, it often can be surprisingly difficult to find answers to seemingly simple questions about its characteristics. This convenient handbook, written in question-and-answer format, allows researchers and teachers alike access to basic facts about the human genome. Using a recent assembly of the human genome sequence, Stewart Scherer has compiled answers to a broad range of questions about the structure and function of the human genome. Answers to each question are presented in a direct, straightforward style. Numerous figures and tables are included to illustrate and summarize the information. To comment on this book, click here. About the author: Stewart Scherer received a BS in Bi
