1000 Genomes: A new foundation for genetic research

Small genetic differences between individuals help explain why some people are at higher risk than others for developing illnesses such as diabetes or cancer. Last week, the 1000 Genomes Project, an international public-private consortium, published the most comprehensive map of these genetic variations, estimated to contain approximately 95 per cent of the genetic variation of any person on Earth.

In this short film, Drs Richard Durbin and Chris Tyler-Smith describe the key findings and significance of the pilot phase of the 1000 Genomes Project.