The development of human genetics in Germany; a personal view.

A personal account is given of the reconstruction and development of human genetics in Germany during the years following World War 2. An important stimulus was funding, as a result of the recognition of the genetic hazards of atomic radiation. Starting from 1960, human genetics institutes were progressively established throughout West Germany; comparable development was later in East Germany because of political factors. The first genetic counselling units were formed in 1972, but molecular biology only became an integral part of human genetics institutes at a relatively late stage. Close international links have characterised post-war human genetics in Germany from the outset and a tradition of close links with developing countries has also been established.