The human genome project was started in 1990 and published in 2003 (although research still continues). Its goal was to map the 20,000-25,000 genes that make up all human traits by determining the sequence of bases within each gene. Many ethical questions have developed in response to this question. Three of these questions are:

1. Who should have access to personal genetic information, and how will it be used?
2. Who owns and controls genetic information?
3. How does personal genetic information affect an individual and society's perceptions of that individual?

I want to know your thoughts on each of these questions. In your blog response address each issue in 2-3 sentences- this is entirely your opinion...it can't be wrong! Just be sure to support your thoughts.

GOOD LUCK ON MIDTERMS!!!!!

No Blog this week!

As semester 1 comes to an end, it is time to reflect on the biology you have learned (and prepare for the midterm!). Choose a specific ecosystem (i.e. salt marsh, deciduous forest, etc.) and answer the following:

a. Identify your chosen ecosystem and one specific place it is found.
b. Describe the climate.
c. Give an example food chain (with at least 4 trophic levels)- be sure to include organisms that live in the specific place you chose in part a.
d. Describe the role of bacteria in this ecosystem.
e. Give an example of how human activities have affected this ecosystem.

There will be some information repeated, but no 2 posts can be exactly the same! If you choose the same ecosystem as someone else, find a different place on Earth that has this ecosystem. Be creative! This is the last post of the semester and a good way to review for your midterm.

Choose a disease that infects humans caused by a bacteria or virus and answer the following:

1. Name of disease
2. Is it bacterial or viral?
3. Which body system does it affect? How does it affect this system (be as specific as possible)?
4. How is it spread from person to person? How can this spread be prevented?
5. How is it diagnosed and treated?

One disease per person please (in other words: don't repeat answers!). Please include your name with your post.