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Abstract: DNA samples are the life-blood of modern genetic research. By analyzing genetic variations in DNA collected from a population of individuals, and correlating those variations with health outcomes, researchers are ushering in a new era of more effective and personalized medical diagnosis and treatment. The enormous potential of genetic medicine is threatened, however, by growing barriers to the availability of adequate genetic samples, and this problem is likely to intensify as both the demands for such samples and the obstacles to obtaining them continue to grow. This commentary identifies key factors that are impeding research access to genetic samples and discusses some potential policy responses, including fostering a sense of civic responsibility to donate genetic samples for medical research.
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