All cells contain genetic information, made up of the molecule DNA. DNA provides instructions, called genes, that direct the production of proteins. Other DNA within cells controls how genes are used by different cell types and at different times. DNA is composed of a sequence of ‘bases’ that function like letters of the alphabet to spell out the genetic instructions. The human genome is made up of three billion bases.
Genomics is the study of the many genes and other DNA sequences within the cells, how they function, and how they interrelate.
Differences in the structure and/or sequence of the genome influence a cell’s behavior and explain some of the differences between cells. For example, a diseased cell’s genome may differ from a healthy cell. Such differences may also explain why two diseased cells respond differently to a treatment. Genomics can also reveal similarities between cells. For example, two parasite species may share genes that make them susceptible to the same treatment.
Genomics research involves establishing the sequence of DNA in a genome, and understanding its function or effect. It also reveals differences in different cells’ genomes that are associated with different behaviours.
