Nature vs. Nurture?

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Nature vs. Nurture?

In this video from NJTV, Dr. Tischfield of Rutgers University speaks about genetic markers as well as inheritance being important factors influencing the development of Alcoholism. He states that these markers “seem to increase the chances of one becoming an alcoholic.” Analyze the validity of Dr. Tischfield’s statements, and discuss possible ramifications these elementary findings could have on the general public, given his anecdote presented in the interview. What is the intended audience? Could the inheritable factors be epigenetic? Although he is not using absolute affirmation, how can we be sure that this study is viable? Could any potential biases compel him to prove his research is clinically relevant?

Click the link to access the PBS video “Is Alcoholism Nature or Nurture?”: http://watch.njtvonline.org/video/2180930008/

So we can read our genomes. Now what?

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So we can read our genomes. Now what?

The post-HGP (Human Genome Project) era has brought upon a new boom in genetic research due to the public availability of sequences at our fingertips. Despite many promising advances, many are impatient with the time that the HGP has taken or will take to bring upon potential clinical benefit for the health of the population. There are possible dangers associated with finding genes coding for diseases that are not yet curable, not providing any real benefit, but only anxiety in patients.

Based on this article and what we’ve learned in class and from our readings, what is your first impression of this article or sound byte? Do you think this will ever be a common medical practice? Now, think more critically, and discuss possible benefits and drawbacks of using this type of genome sequencing for clinical purposes if one day it does become affordable and readily available to the general population. (Think about privacy regulations, pharmacogenetics, discrimination, and genetic counseling to start.)

Click the link to access the NPR sound byte and associated article: http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=126396839