Genome research. Sample of tissue from the human uterus is prepared for RNA analysis. This is part of DNA sequencing research conducted at The Institute for Genomic Research (TIGR) in Gaithers- burg, Maryland, USA. Here scientists analyse the structure of human genes, and certain animal and plant genes. Sequencing the genes of a variety of organisms gives an understanding of the evolution of the function of human genes. At TIGR, cDNA ESTs (Expressed Sequence Tags) are produced; these \tags\" enable reading of cDNA, lengths of copied genetic material identical to genes. Mapping human genes will enable development of genetic therapies for inherited human diseases and disorders."