Fact vs fiction: the truth about our genetic predispositions
The ability of genetics to predict both human disease and behaviour is an exciting and constantly evolving field, however, it’s important to sort fact from fiction when it comes to ‘blaming your genes’. Some media recently jumped to the conclusion that the day you lose your virginity may be written in your genes, following the release of a genetic study into the regulation of puberty – but is this correct?
The study in question found hundreds of regions of our genetic code associated with how old we are when we first have sex and have our first child. On the surface this sounds compelling, however, there have been a number of gene association studies of this type taken out of context over the years, where association has been confused with causation.
In this talk, Andrew will cover the red herrings of research into genetic predispositions, and explain where advances are really being made in predicting common complex diseases such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Bio
Professor Andrew Shelling is Associate Dean (Research) at the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, and head of the Medical Genetics Research Group. His research is primarily interested in understanding the molecular changes that occur during the development of genetic disorders, focusing on breast and gynaecological cancer, and reproductive disorders.
Event
6:30pm @Shadows, 8 Alfred St, CBD
Also speaking at this location at 8:00pm is Melani Anae
