biological code

The exploration of the human genome has long been relegated to scientists in research laboratories. But that is about to change. An infant industry is capitalizing on the plunging cost of genetic testing technology to offer people unprecedented - and unmediated - entree to their own DNA. For as little as $1,000 and a saliva sample, anyone will be able to sign up to learn what is known about how the billions of bits in their biological code shape who they are. Three companies have already announced plans to market such services.