During Genetics Week at the International Exhibition and Forum “Russia,” held at the Rosneft pavilion, scientists from the Whole Genome Sequencing Center delivered popular science talks, as reported on the company’s site.
Alina Demkina, a research assistant at the center, presented a session titled “How to read the genome.” She guided pavilion visitors through the DNA molecule, the genome, and the array of methods available to decipher hereditary material. Attendees learned that humans share 99.9 percent of their genetic code, while the remaining 0.1 percent accounts for the differences among individuals. The talk also noted that it takes roughly eight hours for a human cell to replicate its entire DNA and that the human genome comprises about three billion base pairs.
Following this, Alexandra Ivanova, a biostatistician specializing in data analysis at the center, led a session on “Bioinformatician – the profession of the future.” She outlined the skill set and practical applications of this field and explained how lifestyle factors can influence aging trajectories.
As part of Genetics Week at the Rosneft pavilion, visitors could participate in daily genetics quizzes. The cinema hall housed multiple screenings of a video about the Whole Genome Sequencing Center, in which Severinov discusses the center’s work and its relevance to everyday life, future plans, and ongoing developments. The center operates with Rosneft’s support within a government-backed program aimed at advancing genetic technologies through strategic partnerships.
On Friday, January 19, the pavilion hosted a presentation of the “100.000+Me” genetics program. The initiative aims to sequence the genomes of 100,000 Russians to improve the diagnosis of genetically determined and socially significant diseases. The project is also advancing new approaches to disease treatment and the development of suitable drugs, led by the Whole Genome Sequencing Center with Rosneft’s backing.
The international exhibition and forum “Russia” runs at VDNKh through April 12. The Rosneft pavilion is situated in a building conceived by a particular design concept. Its digital displays and interactive exhibits illuminate visitors about the oil industry’s history, potential, scientific progress, and the social projects supported by the company. (Attribution: Rosneft)