Genome of the apes

The Human Genome Project has generated both the information and technological infrastructure needed to accelerate genetic comparisons between humans and the African great apes (chimpanzees and gorillas). Sequence and chromosomal organization differences between these highly related genomes will provide clues to the genetic basis for recently evolved, specifically human traits such as bipedal gait and advanced cognitive function. Recent studies comparing the primate genomes have the potential to affect many aspects of human biomedical research and could benefit primate conservation efforts.