The result is a profound imbalance in the global production of knowledge: probably the most powerful engine of divergence in global well-being between the rich and the poor.

ECONOMIST: BY INVITATION: Helping the world’s poorest | The

These vast networks carried more than just merchandise and precious commodities: the constant movement and mixing of populations also brought about the transmission of knowledge, ideas, cultures and beliefs, which had a profound impact on the history and civilization of the Eurasian peoples.

UNESCO: Culture

"It is my belief that the basic knowledge that we're providing to the world will have a profound impact on the human condition and the treatments for disease and our view of our place on the biological continuum, " Venter said.

CNN: Leaders say discovery must be linked to responsible use

With 20% of the world's coral reefs already damaged and a further 50% under threat, the knowledge gained from the project could have profound implications for the future of coral around the globe.

BBC: NEWS | Technology | Sensors watch Barrier Reef coral