Eye on DNA Headlines for 28 August 2007 and a Poll on DNA Storage

by Dr. Hsien-Hsien Lei
Posted August 28, 2007 in Eye on DNA Headlines, Polls About DNA

• Kristina at Autism Vox takes another close look at autism genetics. As always, her thoughtful discussion and round-up of important information is a must-read.
• Dr. Huijun Z. Ring, DNA Direct’s director of pharmacogenetics, writes about the latest FDA warning for breastfeeding moms on genes and codeine risk. Angela White, breastfeeding counselor, has more at Breastfeeding 1-2-3. (NB: I am currently a consultant for DNA Direct.)
• Thank you to Olivia at happyluau for adding Eye on DNA to her blogroll.
• Add perfect pitch genes to the list of genes I hope I’ve passed on to my son. Stephen Shankland of Underexposed shares news of a recent study on perfect pitch. The trait demonstrated a bimodal distribution meaning that you either have it or you don’t. Researchers believe perfect pitch may be determined by only one or just a few genes.
• Blaine at The Genetic Genealogist looks at the ethics of storing DNA from deceased people. On a related note, how about collecting DNA from strangers for genealogical purposes, “discreet” paternity testing, or other nefarious purposes? This doesn’t include DNA collected for neonatal genetic screening or criminal investigations.

  Would you store someone’s DNA without his/her consent? Take the poll!

  Is it ethical to collect or store someone's DNA without his or her consent?

  • Yes, if I have a good reason to do so
  • Yes, it's not like they'll ever find out
  • Yes, if they're already dead or can't otherwise make their own decisions
  • No, we should respect people's genetic privacy
  • Add an Answer

  View Results

Tags: genetics, genes, dna, dna storage, codeine, breastfeeding

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