In 1953 scientists Francis Crick and James Watson made an extraordinary discovery: the structure of DNA. Commemorating the 50th anniversary of this remarkable achievement, Discovery Channel examines how this single finding has revolutionised the world we live in - and where the cutting edge research of today will take us next.

DNA: The Promise and The Price premieres on Discovery Channel on Sunday April 6. It will be telecast between 7.00 to 10.00 pm. Featuring emotional true-life stories of how the latest genetic developments are saving lives and opinion from the leading figures in the field, DNA: The Promise and The Price looks at the distance that has been traversed since its discovery, and poses some challenging questions for our genetic future.

The programme assesses the benefits and risks of the genetic revolution. It delves into the breakthrough developments of the 21st century, including the impact of the Human Genome Project. The research, which by mapping out all human genes, aims to profile the gene combinations that cause major illnesses, could allow us to tailor our healthcare and lifestyles effectively to our own particular gene code.