DNA-DAY 2012 - ESSAY CONTEST

Fifth Annual European DNA Day Essay Contest
for High School Students

For the fifth year, the European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG), will be sponsoring a DNA Day Essay contest in European high schools. Once again we will partner with the American Society of Human Genetics in this initiative; using similar essay questions, thus allowing a better assessment of knowledge and perspectives on genetics among students from both continents.

The essay contest is meant as a learning tool and a means to promote knowledge of genetics within Europe. It intends to challenge students to examine, question and reflect on the importance and social implications of genetic research and its applications. Essays are expected to contain substantive, well-reasoned arguments indicative of a depth of understanding of the issues addressed by the selected essay question.

1. Question 1: It is reported that it will soon be possible to sequence a person's genome for under 1000 Euros. Would you want to have your genome sequenced? What would be the potential advantages and disadvantages , particularly as related to your health? What would you like to know about your health risks and those of your family and what would you rather not know? How might this information lead you to modify your life style or life choices?
    

2. Question 2: Genes exert their influence on organisms by being turned on and off in precise ways and at precise times. Normal development and even behaviour are regulated by these processes, whereas birth defects and disease can result when problems arise during the process of "gene regulation". In the last 30 years, genomic research has uncovered many mechanisms affecting gene expression that earlier scientists could have never imagined. Choose a gene regulation process (some are listed below) and, using references to support your arguments, explain how that process, when it goes wrong, can be involved in the production of disease, such as cancer.
   
   Examples of gene regulation mechanisms: repressors, activators, enhancers, RNA interference, uniparental disomy, imprinting, epigenetic changes to chromatin, environmental modifiers

Second Place Winner: EUR 200.-
In addition, sponsoring teachers of first place students will receive EUR 800.- to organise a science project or to purchase classroom equipment

Third Place Winner: EUR 100.-
In addition, sponsoring teachers of first place students will receive EUR 500.- to organise a science project or to purchase classroom equipment

All participants will receive a certificate of appreciation for their participation in the contest.