Modern trends in human genetics

Every physician is deeply concerned with the tremendous advances in genetics during the last decade. Through 'gene surgery' DNA transplantation on both somatic and germinal tissue is feasible. Thus, genetic determinism is no longer ineluctable. Tissue culture is a tool to avoid cellular degeneration and achieve cellular immortality.Precise chromosome identification allows one to follow transmission from generation to generation, as well as human gene mapping. Through clinical and especially biochemical methods, genetic entities are dissected more accurately. Ecological genetics studies the risk inherent with drugs, radiations, chemicals and a myriad of environmental factors. On the other hand, behavioral genetics tend to specify the part of the genetic set in human behaviour. Computerized programmes are responsible for some significant advances in population genetics. Prenatal diagnosis, newborn screening programmes, heterozygote detection, and so on, and add a new dimension to genetic counseling. Knowing the part of inheritance in retinal affections, our speciality will greatly benefit from these recent advances in genetics.