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Genome as Commodity -- http://spectrum.ieee.org/biomedical/diagnostics/genome-as-commodity
[1] M. Anderson, "Genome as Commodity," IEEE Spectrum: Genome as Commodity, spectrum.ieee.org, Jan. 29, 2010. [Online]. Available: http://spectrum.ieee.org/biomedical/diagnostics/genome-as-commodity. [Accessed: Jan. 31, 2010].

in 1990, the Human Genome Project set out to map the approximately 25,000 genes of the human genome. Thirteen years and $3 billion later they succeeded. Now, according to this article published in IEEE's Spectrum publication, you (yes, you!) could potentially get your genome mapped out -- for the right price. The premise is that if you have enough money to buy a sports car in cash, you can find out all the lovely little defects in your genes. Different companies offer different packages: one company, Knome, will map your genome for just under $70,000. Another will do it for the low, low price of $48,000 -- and even throws in a MacBook or MacBook Air on which the genome is stored.

Consider that the price of getting one's complete genome mapped out has decreased by a factor of 50,000 since that first project by the HGP. Analysts say that that price could continue to decline in the coming years -- even down to just $100. The author jokes that you could "easily find out every genetic pitfall about a potential mate right in the middle of your first date." Call me crazy, but I think old-fashioned attraction should be the standard for picking a mate.

If you're an individual who thinks they have a particularly interesting genome (like if you carry some rare chromosomal disorder), the Personal Genome Project may be interested in mapping out your genome -- for free! But here's the kicker: it will be made public for the benefit of science and research.

I can see how a couple, perhaps both carrying some rare and potentially harmful genetic disorder, would be interested in a service like this after just conceiving. But why a full-grown and healthy adult would want to know all the defects in their genetics escapes me. As for me, I'm going to dust off this old copy of Brave New World and give it another read.