The Human Genome is composed of 3 billion nucleotides carrying hereditary information which determines an individual´s genetic potential. There is about 0.1% - 0.2% genomic DNA sequence difference between races and individuals, due mainly to single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Many of the SNPs can generate different inherited biochemical characteristics. For example, the ABO blood group site markers, leukocyte HLA site markers and individual disparities in drug metabolism. Knowledge of the DNA sequence differences and single nucleotide polymorphisms and their significance has begun to revolutionize diagnosis, treatment, prognosis and prevention.
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