Genetics. The science and business of genetic ancestry testing.
نویسندگان
چکیده
POLICYFORUM A t least two dozen companies now market " genetic ancestry tests " to help consumers reconstruct their family histories and determine the geographic origins of their ancestors. More than 460,000 people have purchased these tests over the past 6 years (1), and public interest is still skyrocketing (1–4). Some scientists support this enterprise because it makes genetics accessible and relevant; others view it with indifference , seeing the tests as merely " recreational. " However, both scientists and consumers should approach genetic ancestry testing with caution because (i) the tests can have a profound impact on individuals and communities , (ii) the assumptions and limitations of these tests make them less informative than many realize, and (iii) commercializa-tion has led to misleading practices that reinforce misconceptions. The Impact of " Recreational Genetics " Although genetic ancestry testing is often described as " recreational genetics, " many consumers do not take these tests lightly. Each test costs $100 to $900, and consumers often have deep personal reasons for purchasing these products. Many individuals hope to identify biological relatives, to validate genealogical records, and to fill in gaps in family histories. Others are searching for a connection to specific groups or places in Eurasia and Africa. This search for a " homeland " is particularly poignant for many African-Americans, who hope to recapture a history stolen by slavery. Others seek a more nuanced picture of their genetic backgrounds than the black-and-white dichotomy that dominates U.S. racial thinking. Genetic ancestry testing also has serious consequences. Test-takers may reshape their personal identities, and they may suffer emotional distress if test results are unexpected or undesired (5). Test-takers may also change how they report their race or ethnicity on governmental forms, college or job applications, and medical questionnaires (6). This could make it more difficult to track the social experiences and effects of race and racism (6). Genetic ancestry testing also affects broader communities: Tests have led African-Ameri-cans to visit and financially support specific African communities. Other Americans have taken the tests in hope of obtaining Native American tribal affiliation (and benefits like financial support, housing, education, health care, and affirmation of identity) or to challenge tribal membership decisions (7). Limitations It is important to understand what these tests can and cannot determine. Most tests fall into two categories. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) tests sequence the hypervariable region of the maternally inherited mitochondrial genome. …
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ورودعنوان ژورنال:
- Science
دوره 318 5849 شماره
صفحات -
تاریخ انتشار 2007