 
Genetic Engineering Landmark
The world's first functional gene transfer
between mammalian species was performed in 1981 at
Ohio University in Athens
when researchers successfully produced rabbit genes in mice.
Genetics is a rapidly growing field. Strides in disease control have been achieved through
international efforts such as the
Human Genome
Project. Over time, and with continued support of genetics research, more diseases will be understood, which will impact
treatment, prevention, and the overall health of the life on earth.
 What is a Gene?
Genes are material entities that encode
information essential for the construction and regulation of polypeptides,
proteins and other molecules that determine the growth and functioning of the
organism.
What is Gene Transfer?
Gene transfer is achieved by inserting copies
of a gene into living cells in order to synthesize the gene's product. The gene
may be microinjected directly into the cell or into a virus via gene splicing.
The virus is then allowed to infect a desired cell in order to integrate
the new gene into the DNA of the infected cell.
Did You Know?
- The National Human Genome Research Institute
(NHGRI), a branch of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), announced the
first draft of the dog genome sequence
in a free public database for use by biomedical and veterinary researchers
around the globe.
- In 1909, Wilhelm Johannsen coined the word
"gene" to describe the Mendelian unit of heredity.
- In 1983, the first disease gene was mapped
when a genetic marker for Huntington’s disease was found on chromosome 4.
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