Personal genomics and health
Medical researchers may use genomic information to compare the DNA of individuals who bear an inherited disease with those who are unaffected. Differences between their genomes may reveal the precise mutation and cause of their condition.
An individual's genome can be analysed to predict the likelihood of developing certain diseases.
Knowledge and analysis of an individual’s genome may lead to personalised medicine. This is possible through identifying people that have a higher risk of certain diseases due to their genes and giving them advice or preventative treatment.
Pharmacogenetics
It is also possible to identify variations in a person’s genome that predicts how well that person will respond to certain drugs. The study of this is called pharmacogenetics. This branch of science is still in its infancy but is likely to be used to improve the effectiveness of medical treatment.