23andMe

23andMe is an American personal genomics and biotechnology company that provides direct-to-consumer genetic testing and analysis. The company offers saliva-based DNA testing kits and provides customers with reports on ancestry, traits, and health-related information, as well as access to their raw genetic data. It is headquartered in Mountain View, California, and was founded in 2006 by Anne Wojcicki, with Linda Avey and Paul Cusenza as co-founders.

Historically, 23andMe began selling its genetic tests to consumers in 2007. In 2013 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration ordered the company to stop marketing health-related reports, citing the need for regulatory clearance. After a period of regulatory negotiations, the FDA in 2015 allowed 23andMe to resume offering a limited set of health-related reports. Since then the company has continued to offer ancestry and trait information while expanding certain health and pharmacogenomics offerings subject to regulatory approvals.

In addition to consumer testing, 23andMe operates a research program that invites customers to participate in studies and to share de-identified genetic data with researchers. The company has pursued partnerships with pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms to leverage its genetic database for drug discovery and development, including a collaboration announced with GlaxoSmithKline in 2018. Privacy and consent are highlighted in its communications, with options for users to download their data and to control participation in research.