The Diploid Genome (6x10⁹ bp) of James Watson Sequenced in 60 Days. (April 17, 2008)

As Maynard Olson observes in his News and Views article in today's Nature the DNA sequencing of the entire diploid set of chromosomes from a single individual for two-months effort and $1m: "...is a technical tour de force that points towards routine use of whole-genome sequencing as a research tool in human genetics."

However, it's important to understand that the new "cheap" high-speed technologies rely on the data obtained from the original human genome project (HGP) to allow it to properly order the data obtained.

Overall the number of differences between Watson's genome and that of the sequence derived by the HGP is comparable to what is considered the average, based on other information on what are termed single nucleotide polymorphisms.

Of perhaps more than passing interest is the uncovering of some 11 genes, were they present on both chromosomes of the diploid set, might have been lethal. There is no reason at present to believe this is an inordinate number.

In Professor Olsen's view: "The actual practice of personalized medicine based on genome sequences will have to wait until we can make reliable predictions from the data. At present, we have little ability to do so." So even if you've got a spare $1m to have your genome analysed, as matters currently stand, it's not going to help you delay you shuffling off the "mortal coil".

James Watson decoded: Photo BETTMANN/CORBIS

Credit: Nature