Released: August 29, 2008

DNA databases blocked from the public

Source: Jason Felch, Los Angeles Times (Free Registration)

The National Institutes of Health quietly blocked public access to databases of patient DNA profiles after learning of a study that found the genetic information may not be as anonymous as previously believed, The Times has learned.

Institute officials took the unusual step Monday and removed two databases on its public website. The databases contained the genetic information of more than 60,000 cooperating patients. Scientists began posting the information publicly eight months ago to help further medical research.

Read Full Article: DNA databases blocked from the public