HUMAN GENOME ORGANIZATION - IS THERE A ROLE FOR MIDDLE-EASTERN SCIENTISTS

Though interest in the study of the human genome dates back to the era before James Watson and Francis Crick's discovery of the double helic al structure of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in 1953, it was not until the early 1980s that the magnitude of the impact of DNA-related techno logy was recognized. The rapid increase in DNA-related research, coupl ed with recognition of the need for mapping the human genome, led to t he birth of the Genome Project' in 1986. Genome mapping and research i nto the structure-function relationship are expected to demystify thou sands of physical and behavioural disorders with genetic components. T he major aims of sequencing strategies are: improvement for carrier de tection, differential diagnosis, identification of high risk groups an d eventually gene therapy. The human genome project promises to make a major contribution to better understanding of growth and development and has opened new avenues for therapeutic intervention. Several relat ed projects around the world are now underway and several more are lik ely to start. The Human Genome Organization (HUGO) is the central body to coordinate these massive activities world-wide. Research in molecu lar biology in the Middle East suffers from lack of expertise and faci lities, a shortage of scientific information and appropriate means of communication. However, the scientific body has a global responsibilit y to enhance and support efforts at enriching knowledge and advancing scientific research. It is within this framework that scientists in th e Middle East hope to receive scientific back-up and expertise from ap propriate sources. It remains to sensitize the administrative decision makers and to carry out awareness and orientation programmes aimed at achieving recognition of the significance of DNA-related research and its importance, particularly in relation to medicine where practical benefits have been recognized. Identification of expertise/facilities and establishment of collaborative teams at national, regional and int ernational levels would place the scientist on the right track. This p aper outlines views on various aspects related to the human genome pro ject and the role of scientists in the Middle East is elaborated upon.