The construction of detailed guides that plot the type and location of genes on chromosomes. One goal of the Human Genome Project, a long-term international research program, is to create accurate genetic maps of the human genome, or the complete set of chromosomes inherited by humans from their parents. The human genome is estimated to contain 50,000 to 100,000 genes, making up the complete set of instructions for the development and functioning of a human being.
Determining the location of hereditary information carried on chromosomes. In humans, this requires determining the base pairs (chemical code) of each of the estimated 20,000 to 25,000 genes. Once a gene is mapped, that information may be used to compare abnormal genes with normal ones. Molecular biological techniques may then be used to search for methods of treating and preventing conditions resulting from genetic abnormality.
This refers to the process of determining the specific location of genes on each chromosome. In some instances, the location of a gene can be identified through certain tests.
Alternatively, the positions of genes that are located near each other on a single chromosome (and therefore usually inherited together) may be identified through a procedure known as linkage analysis. This information is represented as a chromosome diagram, with the gene locations annotated on it.