National Human Genome Research Institute

National Human Genome Research Institute logo

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is a division of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the United States. It is responsible for advancing the understanding of the human genome and its role in health and disease. The NHGRI was instrumental in the Human Genome Project, which successfully mapped the entire human genome.

History

The NHGRI was established in 1989 as the National Center for Human Genome Research. It was created to lead the NIH's efforts in the Human Genome Project, an international research initiative aimed at mapping and understanding all the genes of the human species. In 1997, the center was elevated to the status of an institute and renamed the National Human Genome Research Institute.

James D. Watson, co-discoverer of the structure of DNA

The Human Genome Project was completed in 2003, marking a significant milestone in genomics. The NHGRI has since focused on understanding the function of genes and their role in health and disease, as well as developing new technologies for genomic research.

Leadership

The NHGRI has been led by several prominent scientists in the field of genomics. James D. Watson, known for his co-discovery of the structure of DNA, was an early advocate for the Human Genome Project.

Francis S. Collins, former director of the NHGRI

Francis S. Collins served as the director of the NHGRI from 1993 to 2008. Under his leadership, the institute played a crucial role in the completion of the Human Genome Project. Collins later became the director of the NIH. Alan Guttmacher served as the acting director and then director of the NHGRI from 2009 to 2012. He focused on translating genomic research into medical practice.

Dr. Eric D. Green, Director of NHGRI

Eric D. Green has been the director of the NHGRI since 2009. He has continued to advance the institute's mission of understanding the human genome and its implications for health.

Research and Initiatives

The NHGRI supports a wide range of research initiatives aimed at understanding the structure and function of the human genome. These include:

• ENCODE Project: The Encyclopedia of DNA Elements (ENCODE) project aims to identify all functional elements in the human genome.
• Genomic Medicine: The NHGRI is involved in efforts to integrate genomic information into clinical practice to improve patient care.
• Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications (ELSI) Research: The institute funds research on the ethical, legal, and social implications of genomic research.

Education and Outreach

The NHGRI is committed to educating the public and healthcare professionals about genomics. It provides resources and training programs to enhance understanding of genomic science and its applications.

Related pages

• Human Genome Project
• Genomics
• National Institutes of Health
• Francis S. Collins