Editorial MedGenMed's Selection of the Top 10 Medical/Health Stories of 2002 Posted 12/19/2002 Kaveh G. Shojania, MD; Sara M. Mariani, MD, PhD; George D. Lundberg, MD Mouse genome sequenced Although of less obvious interest to the general public than the results of the human genome project released last year, sequencing of the mouse genome -- available in "raw form" since May (at http://www.ensembl.org /Mus_musculus) and published in early December[24] -- has generated almost equal interest among the biomedical research community. The mouse remains one of the most studied animals in biomedical research (despite colloquial speech favoring the rat -- as in "lab rat"!), with the mouse clearly established as the leading mammalian system for genetic research since the rediscovery of Mendelean genetics in the early 1900s. The fully sequenced mouse genome will enable dramatic gains in research on mouse mutations that already play a role in understanding human disease, but will also provide a unique tool for studying basic features of the human genome. Humans and mice diverged some 65 million years ago.[24] Thus, when comparative analysis of the two genomes identifies common features, researchers can target these evolutionarily conserved regions with the understanding that they relate to basic biologic processes or constitute key structural or organizational features of mammalian genomes. For instance, as pointed out by an editorialist,[25] comparative analysis of the mouse and human genomes has already identified a previously unknown member of the apolipoprotein gene family.[26] Also, as commented upon widely in the scientific and even lay press, the human and mouse genomes are amazingly similar, with 99% of protein-encoding genes in the mouse having a sequence match in the human genome.[25] At the protein level, differences are more apparent, with encoded proteins a median amino-acid sequence identity of 78.5%, compared with 97% for comparisons between rats and mice. [25] Nonetheless, that so little difference at the genetic level explains such large differences at the phenotypic level clearly presents a fascinating research opportunity and challenge. Point No. 6 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.