Abstract

The sequencing of the human genome was completed in 2003. These data will affect all aspects of biological and medical sciences. Since almost all the genes of the genome are known, the diagnosis and therapy of the future is expected to evolve towards more personalized and efficient methods. Before these medical advancements become applicable, functional genomics must successfully determine the cellular role all the genes in the genome. Comprehensive functional studies will require suitable animal models. Although many mammalian species are used in biological and medical experiments, the mouse emerges as a key model organism in studies of human genes. The power of the mouse model system comes from its extensive physiological and pathological similarities to humans and from technological advancements offered by mouse genetics. Recently, a project called ENCODE was launched to accelerate this monumental effort of gene analysis. Once gene analysis is completed, the face of medicine will change markedly. The greatest impact is expected on the front of individual diagnosis of disease genes and personalized treatments of patients.