Here is a fun graph to keep track of the rapid fall in the costs of sequencing a human genome.
Most experts consider a price of $1000 (Rs 40,000 at present rates) to be the tipping point at which most people will start getting their genomes sequenced routinely. May be as part of screening a child at birth.
But for India the tipping point is closer to $100. We may have to for a year or two for technology to make it affordable.
Note that the Y axis is logarithmic.
I have used the following data points for this graph.
Point Zero:( Not on the graph) Human Genome Project(HGP)
In 1990, an international consortium of scientists set out to sequence the first human genome. It took 13 years and cost approximately $3 Billion (That is $3,00,000,000.)
Only one set of chromosomes, 23 out of 46, were sequenced (Haploid only)
It was a mosaic of DNA obtained from many people.
Point 1: The Celera HGP
In 1998, a private company called Celera sequenced the human genome. It took about 5 years and cost about $100 Million ($100,000,000)
Only one set of chromosomes, 23 out of 46, were sequenced (Haploid only)
It was a mosaic of DNA from 5 people, Craig Venter being the main contributor.
Point 2: Genome of Craig Venter
Around 2003, the sequencing of the genome of one individual (Craig Venter) was begun.
It took around 4 years and about $70 million.
All 46 chromosomes were sequenced (Diploid)
Point 3: Genome of James Watson
In 2007, the genome of James Watson was sequenced by '454 Life Sciences' to demonstrate its new technology.
It cost about $1.5 million (15,00,000) and took around two months to sequence.
Point 4: Launch of Knome
In Nov of 2007, Knome offers to sequence whole genomes of individuals for $3,50,000.
The price also includes consultation with genetic counselors and other benefits.
Point 5: Illumina and Applied Biosystems
In Feb 2008, researchers at Illumina, claimed that they could sequence a human genome for $1,00,000
In March 2008, researchers at a company called Applied Biosystems claim that they can sequence a human genome for about $60,000.
And many more people attempt to bring the price a few steps closer to $1000.
A few articles about sequencing the Human Genome
$350,000 Genome
Mapping the individual - cheaply
Illumina, Gene-Sequencing Warrior
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