Science Weekly The rise and fall of DNA testing company 23andMe
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Mar 27, 2025 Johana Bhuiyan, a Senior tech reporter at The Guardian US, and Timothy Caulfield, a law professor specializing in health and biotechnology, delve into the dramatic rise and fall of 23andMe. They discuss the initial excitement surrounding its DNA testing innovation and the ethical challenges of privacy as users now scramble to delete their data post-bankruptcy. The conversation also uncovers the complexities of genetic testing, the impact on personal health, and the evolving accuracy of ancestry results, sparking insights into consumer awareness.
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The Promise and Commercialization of Genomics
- The Human Genome Project's deciphering of the human genome promised to revolutionize medicine.
- This led to a wave of commercial interest, exemplified by 23andMe, aiming to capitalize on personalized health insights.
23andMe's Rise to Popularity
- 23andMe, co-founded by Anne Wojcicki, gained immense popularity, even becoming a popular Christmas gift.
- Celebrity endorsements and spit parties fueled its rise, with millions sending in DNA samples.
Setbacks and Data Breach
- Despite initial success, 23andMe faced setbacks, including an FDA shutdown in 2013 for unapproved diagnostic tests.
- A 2023 data breach affecting 6.9 million users, particularly those of Ashkenazi Jewish or Chinese descent, further damaged the company's reputation.