Genetics and Molecular Medicine
Genetics is the study of how biological traits and characteristics are transmitted through generations and families. Molecular medicine examines how illness and disease occurs or can be prevented at the cellular or molecular level. Both fields are experiencing exciting new developments in research and in practical applications, as well as confronting important legal, ethical and policy issues about their use.
The AMA is committed to providing extensive and up-to-date news and information about these new fields of medicine and law, whether discussing stem cell research, analyzing genetic testing and genetic discrimination, investigating gene patenting or explaining the Human Genome Project.
Pharmacogenomics: a brochure is available
A brochure summarizing pharmacogenomics using a case-based format is available. To request hard copies of the brochure, email pharmacogenomics@ama-assn.org.
Education and research
Listing of current educational programs and initiatives in the fields of genetics and molecular medicine.
Family history
Describes the importance of a family medical history and provides resources on how to collect information and generate a simple pedigree.
Genetics of common disorders
Many common disorders have a genetic basis. Here, current knowledge of the genetics of selected disorders is summarized.
Current topics in genetics and medicine
Background information on the areas of applied genetics that have the potential to affect medicine most profoundly.
Genetics and policy issues
There is a vast body of evolving policy to guide physicians and researchers through the maze of ethical, legal and social issues surrounding genetics and molecular medicine. Highlights of some of the most pressing policy topics are described here. Topics include the stem cell research, genetic testing, genetic discrimination, gene patenting, and use of human participants in scientific research.
