The genetic load we all carry is considered to be the bad mutations (deleterious alleles) that are hidden on our chromosomes by the "normal" alleles on the homologous chromosomes. The human genome project is mapping out all the human genes, perhaps 50,000 or more.

1. Pick a particular human gene from the list of featured genes from the National Center for Biotechnology Information or from the Weizmann Institute's list. (This second link is in another country, and may take a while to load. If it takes a long time, try connecting during "non-prime time.") List the human gene you picked in the assignment database. Do not duplicate genes.

2. Where is this gene located, i.e., on what part of which chromosome? A description of chromosome structure will help you find the location. Genes are mapped onto the chromosome.

3. What is the normal function of this gene? List the source(s) you used for this information.

4. What problems occur in a person in whom the mutant form of this gene is expressed?

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