A plan for the mouse genome project

Abstract

The National Center for Human Genome Research and the Department of Energy convened a committee of geneticists and biologists who use the laboratory mouse in their research programs. Their responsibility was to identify goals and guidelines for completing the genetic and physical maps of the mouse genome. The motivation for convening this group was to make certain that existing and anticipated research projects together represent a comprehensive program for addressing the Five Year Goals of the Human Genome Project. Three meetings were held: the first addressed the contributions that the mouse can make to the Human Genome Project; the second meeting reviewed the status of the genetic map, gene mapping research, and genome informatics; and the final meeting evaluated the status of the physical map and physical mapping research. The committee then prepared a report that reviewed the status of the mouse genome project and made recommendations concerning areas of research emphasis. The resulting Request For Applications entitled ‘Mapping the Mouse Genome with Emphasis on Technology Development’ (RFA: HG92-002) is an important mechanism for coordinating mouse genome research and accomplishing the goals of the mouse genome project. Progress towards complete genetic and physical maps has been impressive. The genetic map should be completed on schedule, and ongoing physical mapping projects are promising. Given rapid progress on these maps, the Working Group proposed expanding the focus of the mouse genome effort to begin planning comprehensive approaches for characterizing the function of the large number of genes that will soon be mapped and eventually sequenced. Partly as a consequence of the Working Group's efforts, discussions have begun among members of the scientific community and National Institutes of Health (NIH) staff to plan comprehensive, efficient, and innovative approaches for studying gene function. The Working Group prepared a report summarizing the status of mouse genome research and recommending areas where effort and funding should be placed. Our report was submitted to and accepted by the NIH and Department of Energy (DOE) and is published here in its entirety.