Francis Collins

Definition

Francis Collins is a prominent American physician-geneticist best known for his leadership of the Human Genome Project, which successfully mapped the entire human genome. His work has had significant implications for understanding genetic diseases, multiple alleles, and the concept of pleiotropy, where a single gene can influence multiple traits and conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Francis Collins was appointed as the director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in 2009, continuing his influence on genetics and biomedical research.
2. He is known for advocating for the ethical implications of genetic research, particularly in relation to personalized medicine.
3. Collins has authored several books, including 'The Language of God', where he discusses the intersection of faith and science.
4. Under Collins' direction, the Human Genome Project not only mapped genes but also highlighted regions with multiple alleles that can affect health outcomes.
5. Collins has played a crucial role in promoting public understanding of genetics, emphasizing the significance of genetic diversity and its implications for health.

Review Questions

• How did Francis Collins' leadership influence the outcome of the Human Genome Project and its relevance to genetic research?
  • Francis Collins' leadership was instrumental in the success of the Human Genome Project, as he guided a large international team that worked collaboratively to map all human genes. This achievement has greatly advanced genetic research by providing a comprehensive reference for understanding how genes contribute to health and disease. Additionally, the project highlighted important aspects like genetic variation and pleiotropy, which have ongoing implications in medical genetics.
• Discuss the implications of Francis Collins' research on multiple alleles and how this relates to pleiotropy in genetic diseases.
  • Collins' work has shed light on how multiple alleles can influence a single trait or condition, showcasing the complexity of genetics. Pleiotropy is a key concept here, as it explains how one gene can have diverse effects on various traits. This understanding helps researchers identify genetic markers for diseases that may have overlapping symptoms or causes, ultimately leading to better diagnosis and treatment options.
• Evaluate how Francis Collins has shaped public policy and ethical discussions regarding genetics since completing the Human Genome Project.
  • Francis Collins has significantly influenced public policy and ethical discussions related to genetics by advocating for responsible use of genetic information and promoting awareness about its implications for health care. His focus on ethical considerations ensures that advancements in genetics are matched with societal values and individual rights. By engaging with lawmakers and the public, Collins has fostered a dialogue on topics such as genetic privacy, equity in access to genetic testing, and the ethical treatment of genetic data in research and medicine.

Related terms

Human Genome Project: An international research initiative aimed at mapping and understanding all the genes of the human species, completed in 2003 under Collins' leadership.

Pleiotropy: A genetic phenomenon where a single gene affects multiple traits or phenotypic expressions, which is important in understanding many genetic disorders.

Genetic Variation: Differences in DNA sequences among individuals, which contribute to diversity in traits and susceptibility to diseases.