Personal genetics testing company 23andMe is to fund biomedical research to increase the diversity of its store of DNA data. The company produces home testing kits to help people understand their genetic ancestry, but the results can be skewed because some ethnic groups are underrepresented in genomic data. In a blog post, CEO Anne Wojcicki said that her company, which has been working with Ancestry.com for more than two years, will now provide ancestry tests and other services through 23andMe. The work builds on the company's African Genetics Project.
Personal genetics testing company 23andMe is to fund biomedical research to increase the diversity of its store of DNA data. The company produces home testing kits to help people understand their genetic ancestry, but the results can be skewed because some ethnic groups are underrepresented in genomic data. As part of the Populations Collaborations programme, 23andMe will fund scientists working with such groups, often in developing countries, who will in turn provide DNA data that will help make the results of tests more accurate. The work builds on the company's African Genetics Project.