This past spring, scientists posted online the complete genome of cells derived from Henrietta Lacks, revealing information about her — and her descendants. The researchers withdrew the information when the family, understandably, balked.
Last month, scientists sequenced other cells from her, and the NIH announced that only researchers who applied for permission would have access to the information. In addition, her descendants would have a say in which studies would be done. These events mark major achievements, but also underscore needs to confront several troubling questions that will soon face us all.
A tsunami of genomic info is about to hit us, and we are utterly unprepared.
Read the full, original story here: Henrietta Lacks’ Genes and All of Yours?
