http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23677179

Eur J Hum Genet. 2013 Jun;21 Suppl 1:S6-S26. doi: 10.1038/ejhg.2013.73.

The 'thousand-dollar genome': an ethical exploration.

Dondorp WJ, de Wert GM.

Source

Department of Health, Ethics and Society, Research Institutes CAPHRI and GROW, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.

Abstract

Sequencing an individual's complete genome is expected to be possible for a relatively low sum 'one thousand dollars' within a few years. Sequencing refers to determining the order of base pairs that make up the genome. The result is a library of three billion letter combinations. Cheap whole-genome sequencing is of greatest importance to medical scientific research. Comparing individual complete genomes will lead to a better understanding of the contribution genetic variation makes to health and disease. As knowledge increases, the 'thousand-dollar genome' will also become increasingly important to healthcare. The applications that come within reach raise a number of ethical questions. This monitoring report addresses the issue.