This week, scientists published the latest genetic map: it's a map showing patterns of gene variation, and it could help pinpoint the genetic causes of common illnesses. The project is known as the International HapMap Project, short for haplotype map. A haplotype is a pattern of single-letter variations in a block of genetic material. By cataloguing these variations in many people, geneticists hope that they will be able to locate genetic markers pointing to the causes of diseases. We'll talk about the project, its goals, and other genetics news.

Plus, the hidden life of garbage. We'll talk about what exactly happens to trash after it departs your curbside, from recycling to landfills. Plus, where do old PCs go to die? Even computers turned in for recycling may face a less-than-green end in dumps in the developing world. Call in with your questions and comments at 1-800-989-8255 (3-4 Eastern). Teachers, find more information about using Science Friday as a classroom resource in the Kids' Connection.

Guests:
David Altshuler, MD, PhD
Director, Program in Medical and Population Genetics
Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT
Associate Professor, Genetics and Medicine
Harvard Medical School
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts

David Goldstein
Visiting Professor, Molecular Genetics & Microbiology
Director, Center for Population Genomics & Pharmacogenetics
Institute for Genome Sciences & Policy
Duke University
Durham, North Carolina

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Heather Rogers
Filmmaker, "Gone Tomorrow: The Hidden Life of Garbage" (2002)
Author, "Gone Tomorrow: The Hidden Life of Garbage" (2005, The New Press)
Brooklyn, New York

Jim Puckett
Coordinator
Basel Action Network
Seattle, Washington

Books/Articles Discussed:

"Gone Tomorrow: The Hidden Life of Garbage," by Heather Rogers. 2005, The New Press.

(find books discussed on previous broadcasts)

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This segment produced by Karin Vergoth