Before the Human Genome Project, most scientists assumed, based on our complex brains and behaviors, that humans must have around 100,000 genes; some estimates went as high as 150,000.
This quote highlights the surprising discovery that human genomes contain far fewer genes than previously believed—around 20,000 to 25,000. It underscores how our understanding of genetics continually evolves, challenging assumptions based on phenotype complexity. The finding prompts reflection on how much of our biological and behavioral complexity is driven by factors beyond gene count, such as gene regulation and environmental influences. This realization emphasizes that biological systems are more intricate than they appear at first glance, encouraging scientists to explore beyond simple gene counts in understanding human biology.
