The National Human Genome Research Institute began as the National Center for Human Genome Research (NCHGR). The HGP was developed in collaboration with the United States Department of Energy and begun in 1990 to map the human genome.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense."

To help meet the demand for DNA analysis, which has played a crucial role in the investigation and resolution of crimes and missing persons cases since the late 1980s, the NIJ has funded forensic DNA research and development projects for over a decade.

The ACLU's site which explains the pros and cons of DNA patenting as well as the 2013 United States Supreme Court decision regarding DNA patenting.