A genome amounts to all of the DNA in an organism, including genes which are codes for generating proteins; the working machinery of cells.
How big is the genetic code for humans? If the code was to published in full it would occupy 200 volumes of a large telephone directory of some 1,000 pages. It would take more than 10 years to read it aloud without pausing; 15 years for a slow reader.
Will "bad" genes be replaceable with "good" ones? Theoretically, inherited diseases could be wiped out by finding an abnormal gene and correcting it in eggs and sperm - cells which pass genetic information to offspring. The defect would not then be transferred to the next generation. However such germline engineering raises serious ethical issues, and is currently banned in many states. Moreover, some genetic disorders are known to be caused by a series of defective genes which have a complex interaction.
The human genome race, who won? In short, yesterday's press conferences amount to a stage-managed draw between rival two teams, the publicly funded Human Genome Project, and Celera Genomics, a company which barely existed three years ago.
Is this a Pandora's box? There is the potential for mass discrimination based on a person's genetic make-up, which could result in exclusion from a job or from obtaining health insurance. Then again, 60 per cent of diseases are genetically related, probably more: insurance companies would have to exclude most of the population.
Will we live to 200 years? Human genome hype suggests a life beckons without cancer, without ageing and almost without death itself. Nature will not make it so easy. It always asserts itself and often bites back at excessive tinkering in the system. But in time the genome will help to reduce many forms of cancers, ease ageing and extend life expectancy. There is the unlikely possibility, if other areas of medicine do not advance as quickly, of prolonged senility.
Does the age of genetically enriched humans beckon? If a gene responsible for an outstanding fisherman or superb actress was discovered, it would be theoretically possible to implant such genes in others. But environment remains a major influence on personal ability, and genetically related diseases are taking such a toll on society they will probably occupy scientists for the foreseeable future.
Will health care costs plummet? There is nothing to indicate that knowing the human genome will reduce health costs. If anything, there is every indication it will add to medical costs, as genetics is an expensive discipline.