Genomic Research at the American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is in a unique position to examine the critically important subject of genomics. The Museum's vast research experience in comparative biology has led to its prominent role in the field of comparative genomics, the study of the evolutionary relationships of the world's species on a molecular level. The Museum's state-of-the-art molecular laboratory space, powerful parallel computing facility, and extensive collections—including a new frozen tissue collection which will house one million specimens—provide the foundation for this groundbreaking research. The genomic sequencing and analysis of more and more organisms will result in a better understanding of the history and nature of life on Earth, with tremendous implications for both conservation and medicine.
To Learn More About Genomics:
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
A research and educational institution with programs focusing on cancer, neurobiology, plant genetics, genomics and bioinformatics, and a broad educational mission.
The Human Genome Project
The science behind the Human Genome Project: understanding the basics and how the HGP is implemented.
The DNA Files
Provides links on most of the components included in the exhibition such as genetic testing, eugenics, gene therapy, and genetic disorders.
Conservation Genetics
The AMNH Center for Conservation Genetics (CCG) utilizes cutting-edge techniques in genetics, molecular biology, population biology, molecular ecology, and forensics to identify and ameliorate genetic threats to endangered species and to develop and support conservation strategies for retaining genetic diversity.
Comparative Genomics
The Institute for Comparative Genomics is a preeminent center for collections, research, and training in the field of non-human comparative genomics and pursues seminal research in the study of gene variation, which informs our understanding of the human genome, the evolution and history of life, and the conservation of Earth's biodiversity.
Glossary
Cell—The fundamental microscopic unit of which all living things except viruses are composed
Nucleus—The structure inside a cell that is essential to such cell functions as growth, metabolism, and reproduction
Chromosome—The structure in a cell's nucleus that contains DNA; human cells have 46 chromosomes each (23 from each parent)
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid)—The molecule that encodes genetic information, in the form of a double helix held together by bonds between base pairs
A,T,C,G—Symbols for adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine, the bases that pair up on a strand of DNA and make up genes
Gene—The fundamental unit of heredity; a specific sequence of DNA that controls the transmission and expression of one or more hereditary traits
Genome—All the genetic material in the chromosomes of an organism, whether animal, plant, or microbe
Genetics—The scientific study of heredity
Genomics—The study of genes and their functions
Human Genome Project—An international consortium of scientific organizations that completed the first draft sequence of the human genome in 2000 and is now dedicated to analyzing that sequence
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