The full genome of James D. Watson, who jointly discovered the structure of DNA in 1953, has been deciphered, marking what some scientists believe is the gateway to an impending era of personalized genomic medicine....
By Max Wallack
Alzheimer's Reading Room
However, Watson wanted one part of his genome covered and kept secret from him. He did not want to see part of chromosome 19, the part that codes for the APOE gene.
Watson’s grandmother had Alzheimer’s Disease, and, in 2007, he felt that there were no real treatments available and that knowing could do more harm than good.
I think that most people would feel that there have been enough recent advances in the study of Alzheimer’s disease, that knowing early may give an opportunity to at least slow down the disease’s progression.
Do you agree?
You can read more about Watson’s decision here -- Genome of DNA Discoverer Is Deciphered.
Max Wallack is a student at Boston University Academy. His great grandmother, Gertrude, suffered from Alzheimer's disease. Max is the founder of PUZZLES TO REMEMBER. PTR is a project that provides puzzles to nursing homes and veterans institutions that care for Alzheimer's and dementia patients.
