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23andMe Announces Immediate Availability of Upgraded Genotyping Array, Now Testing Approximately One Million SNPs

November 24, 2010

Mountain View, Calif. – November 24, 2010 – 23andMe announced today that the company has transitioned to the third version of the company’s genotyping array. The new technology will allow the company to test approximately one million single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Customers who purchase the 23andMe Personal Genome Service™ on or after Wednesday, November 24th will have their DNA tested on the new version of the array. “With the introduction of our third generation chip, customers will now be tested on approximately one million SNPs, nearly doubling the number of SNPs tested,” said 23andMe Co-founder and CEO, Anne Wojcicki. “Over time, our customers will be able to get access to enhanced reporting about their DNA results through our Personal Genome Service™.” 23andMe has combined Illumina’s HumanOmniExpress array with significant customization to create a more comprehensive testing platform. The new chip has backwards compatibility, ensuring the company can continue to provide reporting that is consistent with what it currently offers as well as improve and develop new reporting for the future. Below are just a few of the genotyping enhancements that are included:

  • Increased coverage of drug metabolizing enzymes and transporters (DMET) as well as other genes associated with response to various drugs.
  • Increased coverage of gene markers associated with Cystic Fibrosis and other Mendelian diseases such as Tay-Sachs.
  • Denser coverage of the Human Leukocyte Antigen region, which contains genes related to many autoimmune conditions.

About 23andMe

23andMe, Inc., headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA, is a leading consumer genetics and research company. Founded in 2006, the company’s mission is to help people access, understand, and benefit from the human genome. 23andMe has pioneered direct access to genetic information as the only company with multiple FDA clearances for genetic health reports. The company has created the world’s largest crowdsourced platform for genetic research, with 80% of its customers electing to participate. The 23andMe research platform has generated more than 180 publications on the genetic underpinnings of a wide range of diseases. The platform also powers the 23andMe Therapeutics group, currently pursuing drug discovery programs rooted in human genetics across a spectrum of disease areas, including oncology, respiratory, and cardiovascular diseases, in addition to other therapeutic areas. More information is available at www.23andMe.com.