Scientists map Chinese genome

According to Reuters, Chinese scientists have worked out the first complete map of the Chinese genome as reported on Friday. The mapping of the human genome in 2000 opened the door to the detailed analysis of genes, but experts are trying to find out how they interact with lifestyle and environment to determine why some people become sick and others do not. The Chinese map, drawn up by about 120 scientists in the southern boomtown of Shenzhen, was a "milestone" and a first for Asians. The local Beijing newspaper quoted an expert as saying "It is important for the scientific DNA research for Chinese and even Asians to find out the potential illness in genes and epidemic prediction."

Do you think understanding the Chinese genome is important to you, whether you are in US, Europe, Malaysia or China?
There are millions of Chinese all over the world today. Many have integrated with the social environment in the foreign lands and it would be difficult to fully trace back the genetic history of their ancestors.

However a breakthrough such as this, would present new challenges to understand the past and to propel the future generations to the future. After all, the Chinese do make up one of the largest percentage of the world's population today.