There are about three billion nucleotide pairs in each of our cells. Unless you have an identical twin, the pattern they are arranged in is unique to you. Finally, a gene is a segment of a DNA molecule that contains instructions for the body to produce a particular protein. The protein then determines or helps to determine a physical trait. Humans have about 100,000 genes.
Some genes produce noticeable traits, like hair or eye color.
Others produce traits that can't be seen, like our blood type. Scientists believe that each person's unique genetic code also plays a part in shaping more complex traits, such as intelligence. And, it can influence our susceptibility or resistance to certain diseases, including cancer. An example of how the University of Minnesota's DNA bank will be used in the fight against cancer is the new research project led by Dr. Stella Davies, a pediatric oncologist at Minnesota. The genes she is studying work to break down certain toxic agents in chemotherapy drugs.