23andMe

23andMe: Personal Genetics and Biotechnology

Personal genetics and biotechnology company providing at-home genetic testing kits for learning ancestry composition and genetic predispositions to health conditions

What is 23andMe?

23andMe is a personal genetics and biotechnology company based in Mountain View, California. It is best known for its spit kits that enable customers to have their DNA analyzed and learn about their ancestral roots as well as how their genetics may impact their health.

The 23andMe spit kit allows customers to collect a saliva sample at home and mail it to a lab for analysis. The lab examines the customer's DNA for various gene variants and provides a report detailing the customer's ancestry composition, tracing lineage back 500+ years and covering 1500+ geographic regions. The report also reveals if the customer has genetic variants associated with risks for various health conditions like Parkinson's disease or BRCA1/2 genetic mutations.

23andMe stores the genetic information in a secure, encrypted database. Customers have options for opting into potential future health studies that aim to advance medical research. The company has genotyped over 10 million customers to date. While popular among consumers looking to connect with their roots and understand disease risks, 23andMe has faced some controversy and regulations over accuracy and privacy concerns with at-home DNA testing.

23andMe Features

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