Maggie's Farm

This is the new field of "epigenetics," which has grown vastly thanks to the genome project. While twins may develop from identical DNA, they start differentiating almost immediately in the environment of the womb. The older the identical twins, the more diverse their DNA. So, there is both nature AND nuture iin the development of one's abilities, health, etc. Methyl tags can turn on and off genes - fully or partially - thus, impacting whether or not a particular characteristic is manifested or acquired by that person.

Most notably, in recent Danish and Swedish studies it has been suggested that periods of famine affect the propensity of that person's children AND grandchildren to gain weight; that is, to metabolize calories. The detailed records of farm systems in those countries made rainfall and production figures easy to apply to future generations. leading scientists to see how the epigenetic changes in DNA can be inherited by future generations.

I am not an expert on all the implications, but this should lead to "designer" drugs that specifically attach to a gene, correcting its behavior. It also better explains Darwin's theories, how stress can change brain function (PTSD), etc.

And, perhaps, Mr. Francis, how your son's determination led to his overcoming a challenge. Congratulations to him.