The human genome is estimated to contain about 20,000 to 25,000 genes. This number has been refined over the years as our understanding of genetics has improved and as technologies for gene discovery have advanced.
Each gene in the human genome is a specific sequence of DNA that encodes instructions for making proteins, which perform various functions in our bodies. The exact number of genes can vary slightly among individuals due to genetic variation, but the range of 20,000 to 25,000 is widely accepted as a general estimate.
Interestingly, while these genes play crucial roles in human development and function, they comprise only a small portion of our total genomic DNA. The remainder includes non-coding regions that may have regulatory functions or other roles that researchers are still striving to fully understand.