PLAY PODCASTS
The Dubious Consent Question At The Heart Of The Human Genome Project
Episode 1094

The Dubious Consent Question At The Heart Of The Human Genome Project

Short Wave · NPR

July 15, 202414m 12s

Show Notes

The Human Genome Project was a massive undertaking that took more than a decade and billions of dollars to complete. For it, scientists collected DNA samples from anonymous volunteers who were told the final project would be a mosaic of DNA. Instead, over two-thirds of the DNA comes from one person: RP11. No one ever told him. Science journalist Ashley Smart talks to host Emily Kwong about his recent investigation into the decision to make RP11 the major donor — and why unearthing this history matters to genetics today.

Read Ashley's full article in Undark Magazine here.

Questions or ideas for future episodes? Email us at [email protected].

To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:

See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.

NPR Privacy Policy