
<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout" style="border:1px solid #000; border-collapse:collapse;"><tbody><tr><td>
<h2>Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul><li>23andMe has expanded its Ancestry Composition feature to include 31 new Genetic Groups across Vietnam, from the Mekong Delta to the Red River Delta.</li>
<li>These Vietnamese Genetic Groups use shared DNA patterns to pinpoint regional ancestry, going beyond a broad &#8220;Vietnamese&#8221; label to reflect the deep-rooted family histories shaped by the country&#8217;s distinct landscapes and migration routes.</li>
<li>23andMe also offers reports on conditions particularly relevant to people of Asian descent, including insights into genetic variants that influence hearing loss, drug metabolism and alcohol flush reaction.</li></ul>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>May is <a href="https://asianpacificheritage.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month</a>, a time to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of communities whose roots span the Pacific. To mark the occasion, 23andMe is adding 31 new Vietnamese Genetic Groups to its Ancestry Composition feature, offering members with Vietnamese heritage their most detailed view yet of where in Vietnam their ancestors likely came from.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-closer-look-at-vietnamese-ancestry">A Closer Look at Vietnamese Ancestry</h2>



<p>Vietnam&#8217;s geography has long shaped its people. The country stretches more than 1,000 miles along the eastern edge of Southeast Asia, threading through highlands, river valleys and two great deltas. For centuries, those landscapes have channeled migration, trade and family ties, and they may show up in your DNA, too.</p>



<p>Genetic Groups are clusters of people who share more recent DNA with one another than with the broader population, often because their families lived in the same region for many generations. By analyzing patterns of shared DNA across thousands of 23andMe members of Vietnamese descent, our clustering algorithm identifies regional signatures finer than a single &#8220;Vietnamese&#8221; label can capture. If you have Vietnamese roots, you may now see groups anywhere from the Mekong Delta in the south to the Red River Delta in the north. These groups reflect the long shared history of families and communities, not modern political boundaries.</p>



<p>Most members with Vietnamese ancestry will receive at least one of these Genetic Groups, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members also get the ability to see groups they may have more distant matches to, opening a wider view of regional connections.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="628" height="1024" src="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vietnam-628x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-35303" style="width:375px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vietnam-628x1024.png 628w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vietnam-184x300.png 184w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vietnam-768x1253.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vietnam-540x880.png 540w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vietnam-723x1180.png 723w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/vietnam-scaled.png 1569w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 628px) 100vw, 628px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-growing-picture-of-asia">A Growing Picture of Asia</h2>



<p>Vietnam joins a growing set of Asian representation in 23andMe&#8217;s Ancestry Composition. In recent years, 23andMe has added Genetic Groups in the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/discover-new-filipino-genetic-groups-with-23andme" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Philippines</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-groups-in-china-korea-mongolia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China, Korea and Mongolia</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-groups-for-japan-and-scandinavia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Japan</a> and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-south-asia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Asia</a>. </p>



<p>More groups across Southeast Asia and the Pacific are on the way.&nbsp;</p>



<p>There are also connections throughout Asia in the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature, which compares your DNA to people who lived hundreds or even thousands of years ago. Recent additions include ancient individuals from <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-historical-matches-in-southwest-china" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">southwest China</a> and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/historical-matches-ancient-china" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ancient China</a>, a <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-historical-matches-could-link-you-to-this-6th-century-cross-border-couple" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">6th-century cross-border couple</a> and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-historical-matches-the-mysterious-skeletons-of-roopkund-lake" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the mysterious skeletons of Roopkund Lake</a> in the Himalayas. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-to-your-health-journey">Connecting to Your Health Journey</h2>



<p>Your ancestry is one part of the picture. 23andMe also offers reports on many health conditions relevant to people of Asian heritage, such as coronary artery disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. In addition, several 23andMe health reports examine specific genetic variants that are more common in certain Asian populations.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/dfnb1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss and Deafness, DFNB1 (GJB2-Related) Carrier Status report</a>* looks at variants in the <em>GJB2</em> gene that can cause one of the most common inherited forms of hearing loss. Up to 1 in 4 people of East or Southeast Asian descent are carriers for this condition, and this report includes variants that are more common for them as well as those of South Asian descent.</li>



<li>The <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/pharmacogenetics/cyp2c19/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CYP2C19 Drug Metabolism report</a>** can tell you about genetic variants that can affect how your body processes certain medications for heart disease, depression, acid reflux, and other conditions. Some of these variants are more common in people of East Asian descent than in other populations. </li>



<li>The <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/wellness/alcohol-flush-reaction/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alcohol Flush Reaction report</a> examines a variant in the <em>ALDH2</em> gene that&#8217;s common across East Asia and affects how the body breaks down a toxic byproduct of alcohol.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-map-of-asian-heritage-and-health">Expanding the Map of Asian Heritage and Health</h2>



<p>The future of genetics depends on the diversity of stories powering it. This Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, explore your Genetic Groups (new and old), Historical Matches and personalized reports, and see what your heritage reveals. 23andMe members who choose to participate help build a product that reflects the full breadth of the human experience. Already a 23andMe member? <a href="https://you.23andme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sign in</a> to discover your new regional connections, and celebrate your unique story.</p>



<p><em>* The 23andMe PGS test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults for the purpose of reporting carrier status and reporting and interpreting genetic health risks. The relevance of each report may vary based on ethnicity. Our carrier status reports can be used to determine carrier status, but cannot determine if you have two copies of any genetic variant. These carrier reports are not intended to tell you anything about your risk for developing a disease in the future or anything about the health of your fetus, or your newborn child&#8217;s risk of developing a particular disease later in life. For certain conditions, we provide a single report that includes information on both carrier status and genetic health risk. The Nonsyndromic Hearing Loss and Deafness, DFNB1 (GJB2-Related) carrier status report is indicated for the detection of eight variants in the GJB2 gene. The report can tell you if you have two copies of some tested variants, and if you are at risk of having hearing loss related to DFNB1, but does not describe your overall risk of having DFNB1-related hearing loss. This test is relevant for people of many, but not all, ethnicities.</em></p>



<p><em>** 23andMe PGS Pharmacogenetics reports: The 23andMe test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 3 variants in the CYP2C19 gene in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting information about the processing of certain therapeutics to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. It does not describe if a person will or will not respond to a particular therapeutic and does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific therapeutic. Our CYP2C19 Pharmacogenetics report provides certain information about variants associated with metabolism of some therapeutics and provides interpretive drug information regarding the potential effect of citalopram and clopidogrel therapy. Results for certain CYP2C19 results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action. Warning: Test information should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment and does not test for all possible variants that may affect metabolism or protein function. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional. Making changes to your current regimen can lead to harmful side effects or reduced intended benefits of your medication, therefore consult with your healthcare professional before taking any medical action. For important information and limitations regarding Pharmacogenetics reports, visit </em><a href="http://23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>23andme.com/test-info/pharmacogenetics/</em></a></p>



<p></p>


Sr. Manager, Product Science

Alisa Lehman

Celebrating AANHPI Heritage Month With New Vietnamese Genetic Groups


<p><em><br>The Maryland Dove docked at Historic St. Mary’s City, Maryland. This ship is a reconstruction of the Dove, a 17th-century trading vessel that, alongside the passenger ship the Ark, carried colonists to found Maryland in 1634.<strong> </strong>Image credit: Jenn Dorsey, Historic St. Mary&#8217;s City</em>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout" style="border:1px solid #000; border-collapse:collapse;"><tbody><tr><td>
<h2>Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul><li>By analyzing the DNA of 49 individuals buried in St. Mary’s City, Maryland 300–400 years ago, scientists were able to link 1.3 million 23andMe participants to some of the individuals from Maryland&#8217;s first capital.</li>
<li>For the first time, ancient DNA combined with modern genealogy was used to propose the identities of unknown historical figures, including Maryland’s second governor, Thomas Greene.</li>
<li>The study showed the genetic impact of a documented historical migration, showing a clear genetic link between the original 17th-century Maryland settlers and modern-day populations in Kentucky.</li></ul>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>Nearly four centuries ago, a small group of English and Irish settlers stepped ashore on the southern tip of Maryland and founded a colony they called St. Mary&#8217;s City. Many came seeking religious freedom, others arrived as indentured servants. Over the years, a significant number of these early colonists were buried at the site of the 17th-century Brick Chapel, but their names have since been lost to time.</p>



<p>Now, a new study published in <em><a href="https://www.cell.com/current-biology/fulltext/S0960-9822(26)00516-6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Current Biology</a></em> and co-led by researchers at the 23andMe Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, and the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History is helping restore their stories. With the support of Historic St. Mary&#8217;s City, the researchers analyzed the genomes of 49 individuals buried in St. Mary&#8217;s City&#8217;s Chapel Field. By comparing their DNA to more than 11.5 million consenting 23andMe research participants, the team traced where these colonists came from, mapped how their descendants spread across America, and, for the first time, proposed possible identities for three previously unknown individuals, including the colony&#8217;s second governor.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Genetic legacy of St. Mary&#039;s City / Curr. Biol., May 14, 2026 (Vol. 36, Issue 11)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fRbf3AkLXtY?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-short-lived-colonial-capital">A short lived colonial capital</h2>



<p>Established in 1634, St. Mary&#8217;s City was the founding English settlement in the colony of Maryland. It was envisioned by George Calvert, the first Baron Baltimore, as both an expansion of the King&#8217;s realm and a place of religious freedom, particularly for persecuted Catholics. The first settlers departed from the Isle of Wight aboard two ships, the <em>Ark </em>and the <em>Dove </em>in late 1633, and arrived at Maryland&#8217;s southern shore the following year.</p>



<p>Though its role as a capital city was short-lived (the seat of government moved to present-day Annapolis in 1695), St. Mary&#8217;s City left a lasting mark on American history. The Chapel Field cemetery, located at the site of the colony&#8217;s Brick Chapel, served as the primary burial ground for nearly a century. Despite existing written records and the ability of many present-day Americans to trace their ancestry to the historic city, many gaps remain in our knowledge of this founding population.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="733" src="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/brick_chapel_reconstruction-1024x733.png" alt="" class="wp-image-35277" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/brick_chapel_reconstruction-1024x733.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/brick_chapel_reconstruction-300x215.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/brick_chapel_reconstruction-768x550.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/brick_chapel_reconstruction-880x630.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/brick_chapel_reconstruction-1180x844.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/brick_chapel_reconstruction.png 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>2010 image of the exterior of the reconstructed 1667 Brick Chapel at Historic St. Mary&#8217;s City. Image credit: Donald Winter, Historic St. Mary&#8217;s City</em></figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancient-dna-meets-the-world-s-largest-genetics-database">Ancient DNA meets the world&#8217;s largest genetics database</h2>



<p>Researchers extracted ancient DNA from the bones of individuals buried at the site, then used an identity-by-descent approach to find genetic matches among living 23andMe customers who consented to research.</p>



<p>More than 1.3 million consented research participants share DNA with one or more of the St. Mary&#8217;s individuals. DNA sharing occurred at particularly high rates among participants with ancestry from western England and Wales. Several individuals in the study showed stronger genetic connections to Ireland, lending weight to accounts of Irish settlers among the earliest colonists.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-a-documented-migration-in-dna">Tracking a documented migration in DNA</h2>



<p>One of the study&#8217;s most compelling findings is the detection of a clear genetic signal corresponding to a migration previously known only from historical records. Following the Revolutionary War, many Catholic families from St. Mary&#8217;s County faced economic hardship and growing religious discrimination. This prompted a wave of emigration to Kentucky primarily between 1780 and 1820. These settlers established themselves mainly in what are now Nelson and Washington counties.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When the research team mapped which 23andMe participants shared the closest genetic connections to the St. Mary&#8217;s individuals, they found enrichment around Louisville, Kentucky, highlighting the power of this approach.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-expanding-the-calvert-family-tree">Expanding the Calvert family tree</h2>



<p>Among the 49 individuals studied, three of the burials were already known: Philip Calvert, the colony&#8217;s fifth governor, his first wife Anne Wolseley Calvert, and an infant, who was confirmed using DNA to be Philip Calvert&#8217;s son, likely from his second marriage. All three were buried in unusual lead coffins beneath the chapel floor.&nbsp;</p>



<p>By comparing their DNA to the remaining individuals in the study, the researchers identified three additional members of the extended Calvert family. The team also identified five other family groupings among the burials, including one that spanned three generations. Given the extraordinarily high mortality rates of the early colonial period, finding a multigenerational family within a single cemetery was a notable finding.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-new-approach-to-identifying-the-nameless-dead">A new approach to identifying the nameless dead</h2>



<p>Perhaps the most novel aspect of the study is what it demonstrates about using wide-ranging disciplines—from genetics and genealogy to archaeology, history, and osteology—to propose identities for otherwise unknown burials.</p>



<p>The study team invited consented 23andMe research participants who shared the strongest genetic connections to the St. Mary&#8217;s burials to contribute details from their own family trees. Researchers then searched for names that appeared across multiple genealogies and combined those findings with other anthropological evidence. Focusing on three closely related individuals, they found overlaps pointing to a single colonial family: Governor Thomas Greene, the second governor of the Maryland colony, his first wife Anne, and their son Leonard. This marks the first time ancient DNA has been used to propose identities for unknown historical individuals without any prior knowledge of who they might be, a significant milestone for the field.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-research-built-with-community">Research built with community</h2>



<p>Cutting-edge science wasn&#8217;t the only key to the success of this study. The early Maryland descendant community, including those who trace their lineage to the original <em>Ark</em> and <em>Dove</em> voyage, provided active support of the project.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="683" height="1024" src="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/reenactor_woman_sewing_small-683x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-35280" style="width:257px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/reenactor_woman_sewing_small-683x1024.png 683w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/reenactor_woman_sewing_small-200x300.png 200w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/reenactor_woman_sewing_small-768x1152.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/reenactor_woman_sewing_small-587x880.png 587w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/reenactor_woman_sewing_small-787x1180.png 787w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/reenactor_woman_sewing_small.png 1101w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>St. Mary’s City historical interpreter portraying a seamstress. Image credit: Chip Clark, Smithsonian institution</em></figcaption></figure>



<p>The study also depended on the millions of 23andMe members who chose to participate in research. Participants who reported genealogical ties to 17th-century St. Mary&#8217;s City were significantly more likely to share DNA with the colonial individuals than those who did not, underscoring the real-world meaning of those genetic connections.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-the-future-of-ancient-dna-research">What this means for the future of ancient DNA research</h2>



<p>The St. Mary&#8217;s City study represents something genuinely new: a framework that combines ancient DNA, archaeology, genealogical records, and a large modern genetics database to answer questions that written history could not resolve alone. The approach, particularly the method for proposing identities for unknown individuals, opens a door to similar work at countless other historical sites.</p>



<p>As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, this research underscores the enduring connections between the nation&#8217;s earliest European settlers and millions of living Americans.</p>


Sr. Scientist I, Population Genetics R&D

Éadaoin Harney

Ancient DNA and 23andMe Are Rewriting the Story of Some of America’s Earliest Colonists


<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout" style="border:1px solid #000; border-collapse:collapse;"><tbody><tr><td>
<h2>Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul><li>23andMe scientists and collaborators have shown that asthma, hay fever and eczema share many underlying genetic associations, pointing to a common immune-system foundation.</li>
<li>Including diverse populations in genetic research helped uncover additional genetic variants associated with eczema.</li>
<li>Insights from large genome-wide studies have shaped the science behind 23andMe&#8217;s five allergy and asthma reports.</li></ul>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>If you have ever spent a May morning sneezing your way through a pollen cloud, or watched a child scratch at itchy patches of eczema, you are not alone. May is Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, and according to the <a href="https://aafa.org/allergies/allergy-facts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America</a>, more than 100 million people in the United States experience some form of allergy each year. Behind those numbers sits a deep and tangled biology, one that 23andMe scientists and their academic collaborators have been working to untangle for more than a decade.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-decade-plus-of-allergy-and-asthma-genetic-research">A decade-plus of allergy and asthma genetic research</h2>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23817569/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In 2013</a>, 23andMe researchers led a genome-wide association study (a GWAS, which looks across the genome for genetic variants more common in people with a given trait) of nearly 54,000 people with self-reported allergies. That early study identified <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-associations-found-for-allergies-and-asthma" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">16 genetic variants</a> associated with cat, dust-mite and pollen allergies, eight of which overlapped with asthma. In the years that followed, 23andMe contributed to more than a dozen additional publications.</p>



<p>A 2017 paper in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29083406/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Genetics</em></a> analyzed about 360,000 people and identified 136 genetic variants associated with asthma, hay fever or eczema. This showed that these conditions may have a common genetic foundation rooted in immune regulation. Follow-up work in <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29679657/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2019</a> and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32603359/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2020</a> pushed further, surfacing <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/the-shared-genetics-of-allergies-hay-fever-and-eczema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eleven additional variants in or near nine genes</a> associated with allergies, and finding additional genetic variants associated with developing allergies, asthma and eczema <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/researchers-identify-new-genetic-associations-for-allergies-asthma-and-eczema" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">at a very early age</a>.</p>



<p>Digging more into age of onset, a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30929738/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2019 analysis</a> using UK Biobank data, and then replicated with 23andMe data, found that around 30% of the genetic variants associated with asthma were shared between childhood-onset and adult-onset asthma, but most genetic variants were distinct.</p>



<p>A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37794016/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023 multi-ancestry analysis</a> that included more than 3 million consented 23andMe research participants identified new genetic variants associated with eczema. Importantly, this work included a diverse set of participants that enabled the discovery of two genetic variants that may be associated with eczema specifically in people of Japanese ancestry. It&#8217;s a reminder that studying diverse populations matters for finding new genetic associations.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-insights-don-t-stop-at-the-journal-page">Insights don&#8217;t stop at the journal page</h2>



<p>Discoveries from the 23andMe Research Institute don&#8217;t sit on a shelf. Many of them flow directly into the reports you can see in your <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ account, including five that are especially relevant this month: <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/asthma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Asthma</a> and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/eczema/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)</a>, which can be found with other Health Predisposition reports, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/wellness/cat-allergy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cat Allergy</a>, <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/wellness/dog-allergy/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dog Allergy</a>, and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/wellness/seasonal-allergies/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Seasonal Allergies</a>*, which can be found with other Wellness reports.</p>



<p>Each of these reports uses a polygenic score, a calculation that adds up the small effects of many genetic variants to estimate your likelihood of developing a condition. This information, alongside other factors like family history and environment, may help you understand and manage these conditions.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The genetic variants drawn on by these reports trace back to research like that above, which is to say, they trace back in part to consented 23andMe research participants who answered survey questions about their own allergies and asthma. The more people contribute, the better the science gets, and the better the reports become for the next generation of 23andMe members.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-you-can-do-this-allergy-season">What you can do this allergy season</h2>



<p>Genetics is only one piece of why asthma or allergies show up in your life, and there is plenty you can do regardless of what your genes say.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Track your triggers. Keeping a simple log of when symptoms flare can help you and your clinician spot patterns, whether the culprit is tree pollen, a particular pet or an indoor mold.&nbsp;</li>



<li>For those with asthma, recognize the warning signs of an asthma attack and create a plan for action. Catching an asthma attack early can prevent severe symptoms.</li>



<li>Check your reports. Your 23andMe Asthma, Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) and allergy-related reports can give you a sense of your genetic likelihood, which may be useful context to share with a healthcare professional.</li>



<li>Talk to a clinician. If symptoms are persistent or affecting daily life, allergists and dermatologists have a growing toolkit of treatments.</li>
</ul>



<p>The science that built today&#8217;s reports were powered by people willing to share a little about their own health. 23andMe research participants are helping to shape new discoveries. The next finding might just turn into the next report.</p>



<p>*<em>The 23andMe Asthma, Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis), Cat Allergy, Dog Allergy, and Seasonal Allergies PRS reports are based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates many genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of experiencing these conditions. These reports do not describe a person’s overall likelihood, do not account for lifestyle or family history and have not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. These reports are not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment.</em></p>


The Genetics of Asthma and Allergies: More Than a Decade of 23andMe Research


<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout" style="border:1px solid #000; border-collapse:collapse;"><tbody><tr><td>
<h2>Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul><li>Around one in five Americans will develop some form of skin cancer by age 70. Melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma account for the vast majority of these skin cancers.</li>
<li>23andMe research has identified dozens of genetic markers associated with skin cancer over the last decade, helping scientists to potentially improve screening and understand complex genetic connections.</li>
<li>While genetics play a part, your sun exposure history, skin type, and family history all matter. Understanding these factors allows you to take control through regular screening and small daily habits that can meaningfully reduce your risk.</li></ul>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>Here&#8217;s a sobering number to sit with: roughly <a href="https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">one in five</a> Americans will develop some form of skin cancer by age 70, making it the <a href="https://www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-information/skin-cancer-facts/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most common cancer</a> in the United States. May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a good moment to talk about how the sun, your skin, and your DNA come together to shape your personal risk.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-genetic-story-behind-skin-cancer">The Genetic Story Behind Skin Cancer</h2>



<p>Skin cancer isn&#8217;t one disease but <a href="https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/types/common" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">several</a>. Melanoma, though less common, is often more dangerous because it&#8217;s more likely to spread to other organs. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), together called non-melanoma skin cancers, are far more common and usually less aggressive, though SCC can spread if left untreated.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-23andme-research-on-skin-cancer">23andMe Research on Skin Cancer</h3>



<p>Over the last decade, scientists at the 23andMe Research Institute have worked alongside collaborators and with hundreds of thousands of consented participants to map the DNA markers associated with these cancers. This research helps scientists worldwide hunt for better treatments and identify those who may need more aggressive screening.</p>



<p>Key milestones from our research community include:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>A <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms12510" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2016 study</a> that found 14 new genetic variants associated with BCC.</li>



<li>A <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-022-35345-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022 study</a> that identified 19 additional BCC genetic variants and 15 SCC-associated genetic variants.</li>



<li><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s42003-023-05753-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Most recently</a>, a study that was able to identify 36 new BCC genetic variants, 33 of which also showed associations with SCC risk.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-connecting-the-dots-polygenic-risk-scores">Connecting the Dots: Polygenic Risk Scores</h3>



<p>To make sense of all these different genetic variants, which individually have small overall effects on skin cancer risk, scientists combine them into disease risk scores, also called polygenic risk scores, that summarize the contribution of many genetic variants at once.&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-020-20246-5" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In 2021</a> 23andMe researchers combined genetic variants and non-genetic factors (including things like age, pigmentation traits, mole counts, sun exposure history, and family history) to create scores that predict the likelihood of developing BCC, SCC, and melanoma. These risk scores also predicted earlier age of skin cancer diagnosis.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-unexpected-connection">An Unexpected Connection</h3>



<p>One of the more <a href="https://www.jidonline.org/article/S0022-202X(18)31749-4/fulltext" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">intriguing findings</a>: genes that protect against vitiligo (the autoimmune condition that causes patches of skin to lose pigment) appear to <em>increase</em> skin cancer risk. This suggests that the same genetic &#8220;wiring&#8221; that tells your immune system how to interact with your skin’s pigment cells may also play a role in defending against skin cancer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-23andme-skin-cancer-reports">The 23andMe Skin Cancer Reports</h2>



<p>At 23andMe, our goal is to not only make new genetic discoveries, but to transform these scientific discoveries into personalized insights that empower members to take action. To translate this science into something personal we created two reports: the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/melanoma/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Skin Cancer (Melanoma)</a>* and <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/basal-and-squamous-cell-skin-cancers/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Skin Cancer (Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas)</a>** PRS reports, which estimate your likelihood of developing skin cancers based on many genetic variants. Both reports are powered by polygenic risk scores and are available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<p>These reports can&#8217;t tell you whether you will get skin cancer, but they do give you one more piece of information to weigh alongside your skin type, sun exposure history, and family history when thinking about prevention and screening.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-gap-in-genetic-research">The Gap in Genetic Research</h3>



<p>Skin cancer affects people of every background, but the conversation around it has historically centered on lighter-skinned populations. People with darker skin have a lower overall incidence of skin cancer, yet they often face worse outcomes in part because melanomas in people of color more often appear in less sun-exposed places like the palms, soles, and under the nails, where they can go unnoticed until later stages.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Much of the foundational genetic research on skin cancer has also been conducted primarily in people of European descent, which limits how well polygenic risk scores perform for people of other ancestries. In fact, the polygenic risk score behind the 23andMe Skin Cancer (Melanoma) and Skin Cancer (Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas) reports did not perform well enough to deliver results to people of all backgrounds, and unfortunately these members are not able to receive their personalized genetic results for these topics. The Skin Cancer (Melanoma) genetic results are not available for individuals of East/Southeast Asian, South Asian, or Sub-Saharan African/African American descent, and the Skin Cancer (Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas) genetic results are not available for individuals of East/Southeast Asian or South Asian descent.</p>



<p>This is precisely why expanding who participates in genetic research is so important. The more people of all ancestries, backgrounds, and ethnicities participate in research, the stronger and more inclusive these insights become. 23andMe research participants are on the forefront of helping change this, for themselves and for future generations. Learn more <a href="https://www.23andme.com/research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-you-can-do">What You Can Do</h2>



<p>Genetics is one part of the story you can&#8217;t change, but almost everything else about skin cancer prevention is in your hands:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily, even when it&#8217;s cloudy, and reapply every two hours outdoors.</li>



<li>Seek shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is strongest.</li>



<li>Skip tanning beds. Their UV exposure can contribute to melanoma and other skin cancers.</li>



<li>Do a monthly <a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/risk-prevention/sun-and-uv/skin-exams.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">self-check</a>. Look for new or changing moles, sores that bleed or don’t heal, and anything that’s new or changing in size, shape, or color.</li>



<li>See a dermatologist for a full-body skin exam, especially if you have a personal or family history of skin cancer.</li>
</ul>



<p>Catching skin cancer early dramatically improves outcomes. Most skin cancers, when found early, are highly treatable.</p>



<p>If you&#8217;re a 23andMe+ Premium member, take a few minutes this Skin Cancer Awareness Month to review your Skin Cancer (Melanoma) and Skin Cancer (Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas) reports, and then put sunscreen on tomorrow morning.</p>



<p><em>* The 23andMe Skin Cancer (Melanoma) PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 1,800 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of experiencing melanoma. The report does not describe a person’s overall likelihood, does not account for lifestyle or family history and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. The Skin Cancer (Melanoma) PRS report is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment.</em></p>



<p><em>** The 23andMe Skin Cancer (Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas) PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 11,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of experiencing basal and squamous cell carcinomas. The report does not describe a person’s overall likelihood, does not account for lifestyle or family history and has not been reviewed by the US Food and Drug Administration. The Skin Cancer (Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinomas) PRS report is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions or determine any treatment.</em></p>


More Than Skin Deep: What DNA Can Reveal About Skin Cancer Risk


<p>Every April 25th, the genetics community marks DNA Day: the anniversary of the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13054692/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1953 publication</a> in <em>Nature</em> describing the double helix and the <a href="https://www.genome.gov/about-genomics/educational-resources/fact-sheets/human-genome-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2003 completion of the Human Genome Project</a>. It&#8217;s a moment to celebrate and reflect on how far the science has come. This year at 23andMe that celebration is extra special. 23andMe turns 20 in 2026, and the overlap of these two milestones is a testament to what becomes possible when a revolutionary molecule meets a revolutionary idea.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Two decades ago, a small team in California decided that the human genome shouldn&#8217;t belong only to researchers in white coats. It should belong to everyone. That bet changed the course of personal genomics, and on this DNA Day it&#8217;s worth celebrating just how far that vision has taken us.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-beginning">The Beginning</h2>



<p>When Anne Wojcicki and her co-founders launched 23andMe in 2006, the direct-to-consumer genetics industry simply didn&#8217;t exist. Most people weren&#8217;t sure why they would ever want to see their own genome, and many experts thought the public couldn&#8217;t handle this information. But the 23andMe vision was straightforward: understand the human genome and help build a different kind of healthcare system — one driven by the people and for the people. At the time, that sounded audacious. Looking back, it sounds prescient.</p>



<p>The most consequential idea embedded in 23andMe&#8217;s founding wasn&#8217;t just that people deserved access to their own genetic data, it was that those same people, at scale, could become active participants in scientific discovery. And the discoveries shouldn&#8217;t stop at the journal page. When research yields new findings, those insights should be translated back into reports delivered directly to 23andMe members.</p>



<p>The goal was always for the data to come &#8220;full circle&#8221; and help the very people who contributed their information. 23andMe created something that had never existed before: a research engine powered by millions of consented participants who wanted to understand themselves and, in doing so, help others.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-twenty-years-built">What Twenty Years Built</h2>



<p>The most visible impact of this model has been on individual health. When 23andMe received its first <a href="https://mediacenter.23andme.com/press-releases/fdabloomupdate/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FDA authorization</a> to report health information directly to consumers, it was a landmark moment. It validated the entire premise that people have the right to understand their own biology without a gatekeeper standing in the way. Over the years, additional FDA clearances followed, each one expanding what members could learn about their <a href="https://mediacenter.23andme.com/press-releases/23andme-inc-granted-first-fda-authorization-market-direct-consumer-genetic-health-risk-reports/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic risk</a> for health conditions, <a href="https://mediacenter.23andme.com/press-releases/23andme-granted-first-fda-authorization-direct-consumer-genetic-test-cancer-risk/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hereditary cancers</a>, and even <a href="https://mediacenter.23andme.com/press-releases/23andme-granted-the-first-and-only-fda-authorization-for-direct-to-consumer-pharmacogenetic-reports/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pharmacogenetic responses</a> to medications.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Those health insights also brought together a community of research participants, who made possible research at a scale that academia and pharma simply couldn&#8217;t replicate on their own. By inviting members to opt in to participate in research, 23andMe built one of the world&#8217;s largest resources for genetic discovery; and more than 90% of the member base has chosen to opt in and join us in this research. That consent-first, community-powered flywheel has now produced over 300 published studies.</p>



<p>The breadth of what this research community has made possible over twenty years is difficult to compress into any single list, but a few studies stand out:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>In 2016, drawing on data from over 450,000 research participants, 23andMe co-authored what became a landmark study in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/ng.3623" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature Genetics</em></a> that identified 15 genomic regions associated with <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-links-depression" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">major depression</a>. This was the first time researchers had cracked the genetics of depression in people of European descent, breaking through years of failed attempts by studies simply too small to find anything.</li>



<li>That same crowdsourced model powered some of the most important <a href="https://www.23andme.com/pd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson&#8217;s disease</a> genetics work of the last decade. In collaboration with the Michael J. Fox Foundation, 23andMe has helped build one of the largest Parkinson&#8217;s research cohorts in the world, identifying dozens of novel genetic associations that continue to shape drug development today.</li>



<li>When the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-covid-study-published" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">COVID-19 pandemic</a> struck, 23andMe mobilized its community rapidly. In less than four months more than a million 23andMe customers consented to participate in this research leading to <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-021-00854-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a study</a> that showed people with type O blood were less likely to contract the virus or test positive after exposure, demonstrating the unique speed at which population-scale genomics can respond to an emerging public health crisis.</li>



<li>In 2020, our researchers leveraged genetic data from nearly 50,000 people to produce one of the most <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/transatlantic-slave-trade-paper" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">comprehensive investigations of the transatlantic slave trade</a> ever conducted. We confirmed <a href="https://www.cell.com/ajhg/fulltext/S0002-9297(20)30200-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic links</a> between regions in the Americas and areas along the Atlantic coast of Africa, and dated the arrival of specific African populations to different parts of the Western Hemisphere.<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/transatlantic-slave-trade-paper"> </a>Three years later, researchers published a study in <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/full/10.1126/science.ade4995" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Science</em></a> that used ancient DNA to identify nearly 42,000 living Americans with genetic connections to 27 enslaved individuals buried at <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/historical-dna-connection-to-early-enslaved-and-free-african-americans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maryland&#8217;s Catoctin Furnace</a> — including close relatives still living in Maryland, two centuries later. These studies are a reminder that a genetic database is not just a scientific instrument. It can also be a tool for healing.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Signal of What&#8217;s Coming</h2>



<p>Our <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/glp-1-medications-why-your-dna-matters" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">GLP-1 paper</a>, published just weeks ago in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-026-10330-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Nature</em></a>, captures what the next twenty years could look like. Our team conducted a large-scale genome-wide association study drawing on data from over 27,000 individuals who had used GLP-1 medications: drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide that have transformed the management of obesity, but which produce variable results from patient to patient. Just seven months after launching the survey (a remarkably rapid pace for work of this kind), 23andMe researchers found that some of that variability has a genetic explanation. At the same time this work was published we launched a new report and interactive tool related to GLP-1 medications to 23andMe+ <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/wl-mrr?utm_source=23andme&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=wlmrr_april_2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Total Health</a>™ members.</p>



<p>This is what precision medicine actually looks like in practice. The vision is that before starting a GLP-1 drug, a patient could receive a personalized profile indicating their likelihood of weight loss and potential side effects, a dramatic shift from the current trial-and-error approach that leaves many patients frustrated and undertreated. The 23andMe Research Institute aims to continue to share the power of our crowdsourced research community to benefit human health.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Looking Forward</h2>



<p>The road to get here has not always been straightforward. The company has faced real challenges, recently and throughout its history; those of us who&#8217;ve been here through them feel that honestly. But the mission has not changed, it has found a new home in our nonprofit commitment. Our Founder and CEO Anne Wojcicki has said her belief in the company and its future is unwavering, and the commitment to providing access to, and benefit from, genetics remains the north star. The science hasn&#8217;t gotten less important. If anything, it&#8217;s gotten more urgent.</p>



<p>Anne once said &#8220;the future is dripping with possibilities.&#8221; Twenty years in, we believe that more than ever. We have discovered enough of the genome to know how much remains a mystery. We have helped enough people to know how many more could be helped. On this DNA Day, seventy-three years after Watson and Crick and twenty years after 23andMe opened our doors, we raise a glass to what&#8217;s been achieved, and roll up our sleeves to create a future where breakthroughs belong to all of us.</p>



<p></p>


Twenty Years of Reading the Code of Life and We’re Just Getting Started


<p><em>By Matthew J. Kmiecik, Ph.D.</em></p>



<p>April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing education about the condition and highlighting the incredible progress being made in research. At the 23andMe Research Institute, this month holds a special significance. Since 2009, we have been committed to uncovering the genetic underpinnings of Parkinson’s disease to help pave the way for future breakthroughs.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-parkinson-s-disease">Understanding Parkinson’s Disease</h2>



<p>Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by tremors, muscle stiffness, and challenges with movement and balance. Motor symptoms can be just the tip of the iceberg, as many non-motor symptoms also occur, including sleep disturbances, loss of smell, and constipation. While it typically develops after the age of 55, the journey for every individual is unique.</p>



<p>About 1–2% of people develop Parkinson’s during their lifetime. While we are still learning why some people develop the condition and others don’t, we know that a combination of factors is at play:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Age: Risk increases as we get older.</li>



<li>Sex: Males have a higher likelihood of developing Parkinson’s than females.</li>



<li>Environment: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as pesticides and chemicals used for metal degreasing or dry cleaning, can increase risk.</li>



<li>Family History: Having a first-degree relative (parents, siblings, and children) with the condition can increase your own chances.</li>



<li>Head Injury: Some studies suggest that head injury, in particular those that result in prolonged loss of consciousness, can increase the risk of developing Parkinson&#8217;s disease later in life.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-genetic-connection">The Genetic Connection</h3>



<p>For some people, DNA plays an important role in their chances of developing Parkinson&#8217;s. Two of the most well-studied genes associated with Parkinson’s are <em>LRRK2</em> and <em>GBA</em> (also known as <em>GBA1</em>). 23andMe offers the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson’s Disease Genetic Health Risk report</a>* that specifically looks at two genetic variants: one in each of these genes associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson&#8217;s disease. The chance that someone carrying these variants actually develops Parkinson’s is different depending on what variant they carry. Estimates range from roughly 24% to over 50% for <em>LRRK2</em> G2019S carriers<sup>[1][2]</sup>, and from about 10% to 30% for <em>GBA1</em> N409S carriers (formerly known as N370S)<sup>[3][4]</sup>, depending on the study and genetic ancestry.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-our-research-adds">What Our Research Adds</h3>



<p>While most people who have these variants will not develop Parkinson’s, <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/acn3.70176" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent research</a> from the 23andMe Research Institute and collaborators has helped us better understand the nuances of the condition and why it affects every individual differently.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The researchers found that a person&#8217;s overall genetic background can &#8220;dial&#8221; their risk up or down. Among <em>GBA1</em> carriers, those with a low-risk genetic background had roughly the same chance of developing Parkinson’s as non-carriers. But <em>GBA1</em> carriers with a high-risk genetic background were about five times more likely to develop the disease. The takeaway: carrying one variant is only part of the picture, as many other genes and variants across the genome can nudge the risk up or down.<br></li>



<li>For carriers of both <em>LRRK2</em> and <em>GBA1</em> carriers, the risk was even higher. This research showed that these &#8220;dual carriers&#8221; face a much higher risk of developing Parkinson’s—about a 30% chance by the age of 80, compared to just 2% in people without either genetic variant.<br></li>



<li>Genetics don&#8217;t just influence whether someone develops Parkinson&#8217;s; it also impacts how the disease progresses. The researchers found that in those already living with PD, carrying <em>APOE</em> E4—commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease—increases the risk of experiencing hallucinations, memory challenges, and concentration issues. In fact, each additional copy of the <em>APOE</em> E4 raised the risk of these symptoms by 11% to 35%.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-power-in-numbers-17-years-of-research">Power in Numbers: 17 Years of Research</h2>



<p>Since launching our Parkinson’s research community in 2009, the 23andMe Research Institute has grown one of the largest genetic studies of Parkinson’s disease in the world. Our study has included more than 30,000 consented research participants with Parkinson’s. Their ongoing contribution has led to more than <a href="https://research.23andme.com/publications/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">30 publications</a> on Parkinson&#8217;s disease, most recently a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41667488/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">paper</a> exploring other biological factors that might influence Parkinson&#8217;s disease risk or progression.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This progress is only possible because of this community who make up one of the world’s largest genetic studies of Parkinson’s disease. A large study size is what allows scientists to zoom in on tiny DNA clues that would be impossible to spot in just a small handful of people.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-you-can-get-involved">How You Can Get Involved</h2>



<p>Awareness is the first step toward action. This Parkinson’s Awareness Month you can:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Share the facts about PD symptoms and risks with your loved ones.</li>



<li>If you are a 23andMe member, you can opt-in and view your <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/parkinsons-disease/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Parkinson’s Disease Genetic Health Risk report</a>.</li>



<li>If you or a loved one are living with Parkinson’s or you&#8217;re just interested in this research, consider joining our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/pd/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">research community</a>.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>



<p>This April, consider taking a step toward greater awareness for yourself, and for the millions of people living with Parkinson&#8217;s disease around the world.</p>



<div style="width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Author</h4>
<p><strong>Matthew J. Kmiecik</strong>, Ph.D. — Scientist I, Parkinson’s Disease Research
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Matthew Kmiecik is a cognitive neuroscientist whose research has long focused on how the brain processes information under conditions of injury and disease. With over a decade of research experience, Dr. Kmiecik is a Scientist at the 23andMe Research Institute, where his work is supported by The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson&#8217;s Research. His current research focuses on identifying genetic and biological markers of Parkinson&#8217;s disease risk and progression, including cognitive assessments, sensory measurements, and wearable-based tools to better understand how the disease unfolds over time.</p>
</div>



<p>* The 23andMe PGS test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting genetic health risks. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. Each genetic health risk report describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease, but does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. The test is&nbsp; not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions, including whether or not you should take a medication, how much of a medication you should take, or determine any treatment. The Parkinson’s Disease genetic health risk report is indicated for reporting of the G2019S variant in the LRRK2 gene, and the N409S variant (formerly known as N370S) in the GBA gene and describes if a person has variants associated with an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. The variants included in this report are most common and best studied in&nbsp; people of European, Ashkenazi Jewish, and North African Berber descent.</p>



<h5 class="wp-block-heading">References</h5>



<p>[1] Clark, L. N., Wang, Y., Karlins, E., Saito, L., Mejia-Santana, H., Harris, J., Louis, E. D., Cote, L. J., Andrews, H., Fahn, S., Waters, C., Ford, B., Frucht, S., Ottman, R., &amp; Marder, K. (2006). Frequency of LRRK2 mutations in early- and late-onset Parkinson disease. Neurology, 67(10), 1786–1791. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000244345.49809.36" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000244345.49809.36</a>&nbsp;</p>



<p>[2] Kmiecik, M. J., Micheletti, S., Coker, D., Heilbron, K., Shi, J., Stagaman, K., Filshtein Sonmez, T., Fontanillas, P., Shringarpure, S., Wetzel, M., Rowbotham, H. M., Cannon, P., Shelton, J. F., Hinds, D. A., Tung, J. Y., 23andMe Research Team, Holmes, M. V., Aslibekyan, S., &amp; Norcliffe-Kaufmann, L. (2024). Genetic analysis and natural history of Parkinson’s disease due to the LRRK2 G2019S variant. Brain, 147(6), 1996–2008. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awae073" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awae073</a>&nbsp;</p>



<p>[3] Rana, H. Q., Balwani, M., Bier, L., &amp; Alcalay, R. N. (2013). Age-specific Parkinson disease risk in GBA mutation carriers: Information for genetic counseling. Genetics in Medicine, 15(2), 146–149. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/gim.2012.107" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://doi.org/10.1038/gim.2012.107</a>&nbsp;</p>



<p>[4] Anheim, M., Elbaz, A., Lesage, S., Durr, A., Condroyer, C., Viallet, F., Pollak, P., Bonaïti, B., Bonaïti-Pellié, C., &amp; Brice, A. (2012). Penetrance of Parkinson disease in glucocerebrosidase gene mutation carriers. Neurology, 78(6), 417–420. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0b013e318245f476" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://doi.org/10.1212/WNL.0b013e318245f476</a></p>



<p></p>


Parkinson’s Awareness Month: Genetics, Awareness, and Research


<p>Every year on April 25th, the world observes World Malaria Day to highlight the ongoing effort to control and eliminate this devastating disease. This month, we are highlighting a study that searched for cases of ancient malaria infections across the globe to learn about its history and spread.</p>



<p>While most ancient DNA studies focus on the human DNA of the individuals whose remains were sampled, it is also possible to learn about the diseases these individuals carried by searching for pathogen DNA in their remains.</p>



<p>These kinds of studies have enabled researchers to investigate the origins and spread of ancient diseases that were otherwise nearly impossible to study. This is because many ancient diseases, including malaria, don’t leave clear physical evidence on skeletal remains. Furthermore, historical records of ancient epidemics often lack the specificity needed to identify exactly which diseases were present or where they originated.</p>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38867050/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">In 2024</a>, a team of researchers looked at ancient DNA to search for cases of malaria among more than 10,000 individuals. In this month’s update to the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature, we are highlighting the stories of individuals buried at three ancient sites where malaria was detected. Each of their stories provides important new insights into the history of this ancient disease.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-spreading-malaria-along-european-military-lines">Spreading Malaria Along European Military Lines</h2>



<p>In Europe, the cemetery of St. Rombout’s in Mechelen, Belgium, offers a window into the health of a continent at war. Sitting next to one of the world’s first permanent military hospitals, this site served as a burial ground for both local townspeople and foreign soldiers from the 12th to the 18th centuries.</p>



<p>While local residents, who were buried at this site before the hospital was established, showed fewer signs of infection, later individuals—thought to be soldiers who had traveled from the Mediterranean—were often found carrying multiple strains of malaria simultaneously. These findings highlight how the movement of armies turned European cities into crossroads for infectious disease.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-carrying-malaria-to-the-himalayan-peaks">Carrying Malaria to the Himalayan Peaks</h2>



<p>The high-altitude site of Chokhopani sits 2,800 meters above sea level in the Nepalese Himalayas. This environment is far too cold and dry for the <em>Anopheles</em> mosquitoes that transmit malaria to survive. Yet, genomic analysis of an individual buried within one of the site’s cliffside tombs nearly 3,000 years ago revealed the presence of <em>Plasmodium falciparum</em>, the most virulent form of the malaria parasite.</p>



<p>Finding a tropical disease in a mountain environment provides clear evidence of human mobility. It tells us that this ancient individual had likely traveled to warmer, lower-altitude regions—possibly for trade—and carried the infection back to this highland site.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-tracking-the-arrival-of-malaria-in-the-americas">Tracking the Arrival of Malaria in the Americas</h2>



<p>A central debate among disease researchers is whether malaria existed in the Americas prior to European contact or if it was brought there by European colonizers. The study of individuals from the site of Laguna de los Cóndores in Peru provides a pretty clear answer.</p>



<p>Researchers at the site discovered an individual with exclusively Indigenous American ancestry who lived during the period of initial European contact and was infected with <em>Plasmodium vivax </em>(a more widespread form of the malaria parasite). Crucially, the DNA of the parasite was most similar to historical European strains rather than those found elsewhere. This finding suggests that European colonizers acted as the primary vector for introducing these specific malaria strains to the Indigenous populations of the Andes.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more">Learn More</h2>



<p>Want to see if you share a genetic connection with any of the ancient malaria-infected individuals highlighted in this study—or with hundreds of other historical individuals? The Historical Matches feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23and</a><a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">M</a><a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">e+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<p></p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to the Hidden History of Malaria


<p><em>By Steven Fein, MD, MPH</em></p>



<p>For many women, the decision to start estrogen-containing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or oral contraceptives (OCPs) is a pivotal health moment.</p>



<p>These medications can be life-changing. They regulate cycles, prevent pregnancy, relieve perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms, and protect bone health. For millions of women, estrogen improves quality of life.</p>



<p>But estrogen is not risk-free.</p>



<p>One of the most important considerations is the risk of developing blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), or stroke. While the overall risk is low for most healthy women, it is not the same for everyone.</p>



<p>The difference often lies in your genetics.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-hereditary-thrombophilia-the-hidden-variable">Hereditary Thrombophilia: The Hidden Variable</h2>



<p>Some individuals carry inherited genetic variants that increase their tendency to form blood clots, a condition known as hereditary thrombophilia.</p>



<p>The two most common variants are Factor V Leiden (F5 gene) and Prothrombin G20210A (F2 gene). These variants are common. Approximately 1 in 20 people of European ancestry carries one of them.</p>



<p>To put this in perspective, the baseline annual risk of a serious blood clot is roughly <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25304324/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>1 in 1,000</strong></a>. Carrying one of these variants can <strong>double that risk</strong>. When estrogen is added, particularly oral estrogen, the risk can increase substantially, in some cases <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37734636/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">several-fold higher</a> than baseline.</p>



<p>Without genetic information, we are estimating risk.<br>With genetic information, we are personalizing it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-about-mthfr">What About MTHFR?</h2>



<p>Another gene that has been proposed to be a hereditary clotting risk factor is the MTHFR gene. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15670035/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Some studies</a> have suggested an increased risk of blood clots in individuals who carry two copies of the C677T variant, while <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23900608/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">others</a> have found no clear association. </p>



<p>Because the evidence is mixed, genetic results should be interpreted with caution. However, knowing your status can still be informative: if you carry these variants, a simple blood test to measure homocysteine levels may help clarify your overall risk profile and guide further discussion with your clinician.</p>



<p><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/our-take-on-the-mthfr-gene" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Read more about MTHFR here</strong></a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-is-only-part-of-the-picture">Genetics Is Only Part of the Picture</h2>



<p>While your tendency to develop blood clots is <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27764878/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">primarily determined</a> by genes, life events and circumstances are also important. The most widely recognized DVT and PE risks are injuries, surgeries, and long airplane flights (more than four hours long). Cigarette smoking and hypertension are risks for developing stroke. </p>



<p>Estrogen is a mild pro-thrombotic factor (a factor that increases the likelihood of forming a blood clot), whether during pregnancy or through hormone therapy.</p>



<p>The key question is not <em>“Is estrogen safe?”</em><br>The key question is <em>“Is estrogen safe for you?”</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-risk-mitigation-is-possible">Risk Mitigation Is Possible</h2>



<p>If a woman carries a clotting-risk variant, that does not automatically mean she cannot take estrogen.</p>



<p>Instead, it opens the door to informed strategies such as choosing <strong>transdermal estrogen</strong>, which carries lower clot risk than oral formulations, using low-dose aspirin while taking estrogen, short-term anticoagulation during high-risk periods (e.g., surgery or long travel), or close clinical monitoring.</p>



<p>Knowledge allows preparation. Preparation reduces fear.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-23andme-in-understanding-your-genetic-risk">The Role of 23andMe in Understanding Your Genetic Risk</h2>



<p>This is where resources like 23andMe become invaluable. They provide easily understandable and reliable access to important genetic information related to blood clotting, empowering both patients and physicians.</p>



<p>The <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/hereditary-thrombophilia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe Hereditary Thrombophilia report</a>* specifically includes analysis for the two most common variants linked to hereditary thrombophilia: factor V Leiden and prothrombin G20210A. 23andMe also offers a report that includes MTHFR variants.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-i-recommend-23andme-for-my-patients">Why I Recommend 23andMe for My Patients</h2>



<p>As a hematologist specializing in women’s health hematology, I frequently discuss genetic clotting risk with patients who are planning pregnancy or considering estrogen therapy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In recent years, many insurance carriers have stopped covering inherited thrombophilia testing. Instead, direct-to-consumer genetic testing platforms like <strong>23andMe</strong> have made validated variant testing more accessible and affordable. For appropriate patients, it can provide clinically useful information that guides safer, more confident decision-making.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-personalized-medicine-is-not-the-future-it-s-the-present">Personalized Medicine Is Not the Future-It’s the Present</h2>



<p>Understanding your genetic profile allows your physician to contextualize your clotting risk, weigh the benefits and risks of estrogen therapy, and develop individualized risk-mitigation strategies.</p>



<p>This is personalized medicine in action!</p>



<p>Before starting estrogen therapy, have a conversation with your physician about your family history, personal risk factors, and whether genetic testing may be appropriate for you. In some cases, it may also be helpful to consult a hematologist who has expertise in women’s health.</p>



<p>Because when it comes to your health, guessing is no longer necessary.</p>



<div style="width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About Steven Fein, MD, MPH</h4>
<p>Dr. Steven Fein is a board-certified hematologist with more than 20 years of clinical experience. He received his medical degree from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, completed residency training in internal medicine at Duke University Medical Center, and completed a fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.</p>
<p>In 2020, he founded <a href="https://www.femwomenshealth.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fem Women’s Health</a>, a nationwide telemedicine hematology practice dedicated to caring for women with clotting disorders, bleeding conditions, or iron deficiency.</p>
</div>



<p><em>This post reflects the personal insights and opinions of Dr. Fein. It does not necessarily represent the views of 23andMe. We appreciate the unique perspective shared here.</em></p>



<p>* The 23andMe PGS test uses qualitative genotyping to detect clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults, from saliva collected using an FDA-cleared collection device (Oragene·DX model OGD-500.001) for the purpose of reporting and interpreting genetic health risks.&nbsp; The relevance of each report may vary based on ethnicity.&nbsp; Our genetic health risk reports describe if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease, but do not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. The reports are not intended to diagnose any disease, tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions, including whether or not you should take a medication or how much of a medication you should take. The Hereditary Thrombophilia genetic health risk report (i) is indicated for reporting of the Factor V Leiden variant in the F5 gene, and the Prothrombin G20210A variant in the F2 gene, (ii) describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing harmful blood clots, and (iii) is most relevant for people of European descent.</p>


A photo of a doctor showing a patient information on a digital tablet.

Board-Certified Hematologist

Steven Fein

Thinking of Starting HRT or Birth Control? Why Your Genetics Should Be Part of the Conversation


<p><em>By James Ashenhurst, PhD.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout" style="border:1px solid #000; border-collapse:collapse;"><tbody><tr><td>
<h2>Key Takeaways</h2>
<ul><li>New work from the 23andMe Research Institute has identified specific variants in the <i>GLP1R</i> and <i>GIPR</i> genes that influence how individuals respond to GLP-1 medications, affecting weight loss outcomes and the risk of side effects like nausea.</li>
<li>Utilizing data from over 27,000 consented research participants, 23andMe conducted a landmark genome-wide association study (GWAS) to uncover the genetics behind why these medications impact people in such distinct ways.</li>
<li>23andMe Total Health™ members can now access an exclusive interactive tool that combines an individual’s genetic results with their medical history to help doctors and patients move toward data-driven, personalized weight management decisions.</li></ul>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®), have transformed the clinical approach to weight management. In fact, an estimated 1 in 8 adults in the U.S. have used a GLP-1 medication in recent years.<sup>[1]</sup>&nbsp;</p>



<p>Yet, if you or someone you know has taken one, you might have noticed that not everyone has the same experience on these drugs. While GLP-1 medications are commonly prescribed to help control blood sugar and to assist in weight loss, there is substantial variation in how well they work for different people. Some individuals lose as little as 5% of their body weight, whereas others lose more than 20%.<sup>[2][3]</sup> Similarly, while gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting are common, some people experience moderate to severe forms, whereas others report no nausea at all.<sup>[4]</sup>&nbsp;</p>



<p>While lifestyle characteristics like diet patterns and exercise may certainly explain some of these differences, potential genetic causes of this variation have been unclear, until today. <strong>Scientists at the 23andMe Research Institute published a study in </strong><a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-026-10330-z" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>Nature</em></strong></a><strong> that has identified genetic variants associated with weight loss and side effects among those who have taken GLP-1 medications.</strong></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-mystery-of-medication-response">The Mystery of Medication Response</h2>



<p>When people begin a GLP-1 journey, they may start with uncertainty about efficacy and possible side effects. While the market is crowded with weight loss support and medications, few resources offer personalized insight into the simple question: “What can I expect?”.</p>



<p>To find answers, we turned to our incredible community of 23andMe research participants. Over 27,000 consented participants made this research possible by sharing their experiences with GLP-1 medications through an ongoing research survey. Using 23andMe’s unique crowdsourced approach to research, we were able to conduct the first large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) just seven months after starting the study, a very rapid rate for a study of this kind. In simple terms, a GWAS is like scanning a massive library of DNA to find specific &#8220;spelling differences&#8221; (genetic variants) that are more common in people who share a specific trait. In this case, scientists wanted to understand if there were genetic differences that were associated with how participants&#8217; bodies responded to GLP-1 medications.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discovering-the-genetic-links">Discovering the Genetic Links</h2>



<p>23andMe Research Institute scientists uncovered fascinating genetic associations for response to GLP-1 medications, including a person&#8217;s potential for weight loss and their risk of experiencing nausea or vomiting.</p>



<p>First, the study identified a genetic variant that is associated with both weight loss and nausea for the two major classes of GLP1 medications: semaglutide and tirzepatide. This variant is located in the <em>GLP1R</em> gene, which codes for the receptor protein that is the target of GLP-1 medications.</p>



<p>Second, the study identified another genetic variant that is associated with side-effects, specifically nausea and vomiting, while using tirzepatide (Mounjaro® or Zepbound®). You might wonder why this second variant only affects tirzepatide users. It comes down to how the drugs are designed: while semaglutide acts only on GLP-1 receptors, tirzepatide is a dual-target drug that also acts on GIP receptors (GIP, or gastric inhibitory polypeptide, is another hormone like GLP-1 that helps regulate insulin and blood sugar). Our team discovered that this second variant is located in the <em>GIPR</em> gene, which explains why it impacts tirzepatide response but not semaglutide.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="649" height="1024" src="/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-649x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-35199" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-649x1024.png 649w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-190x300.png 190w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-768x1212.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image-558x880.png 558w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/image.png 1014w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 649px) 100vw, 649px" /></figure>



<p>Describing the impact of the study, Dr. Adam Auton, Vice President of Human Genetics at the 23andMe Research Institute said, <strong><em>&#8220;Identifying these variants in the GLP1R and GIPR genes provides an important new insight into why these medications impact people in distinct ways. It’s a great example of how our large-scale, participant-engaged research program can clarify the biological mechanisms behind drug response, and moves us closer to a future where &#8216;precision medicine&#8217; isn&#8217;t just an aspiration.&#8221;</em></strong></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Translating Emerging Science into Personalized Insights</h2>



<p>Discovering these variants is a massive step forward, but our ultimate goal is to meet the need for more personalized insight into GLP-1 medication responses.</p>



<p>That is why a new report and interactive tool related to GLP-1 medications is now available exclusively through the 23andMe+ <a href="https://www.23andme.com/total-health/wl-mrr?utm_source=23andme&amp;utm_medium=blog&amp;utm_campaign=wlmrr_april_2026" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Total Health</a>™ service. This interactive tool combines an individual’s genetic results for these two variants with demographics and medical history to estimate both weight loss and nausea likelihood based on data from 23andMe research participants. All these factors combined can result in significant variability in the likelihood of weight loss or side effects. In fact, the estimates for weight loss can vary between -6% to -20% of baseline weight after one year. Likewise, the estimated risk of nausea and vomiting can range between 5% to 78% risk for experiencing these side effects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What You Need to Know About the New Report</h2>



<p>The science of genetics is always evolving and the 23andMe Research Institute strives to be on the forefront of genetics research, powered by the participation of our members. Our mission is also to help people benefit from genetics research, which is why we are thrilled to provide this new report to our Total Health members. This report is designed to be reviewed in consultation with a clinician and is intended for use in a supervised clinical context, which is why it is exclusively available through the physician-supervised Total Health service.</p>



<p>The shift toward personalized care enabled by this report is echoed by Dr. Noura Abul-Husn, Chief Medical Officer of the 23andMe Research Institute, who views the data as a catalyst for better patient-doctor relationships: <strong><em>&#8220;For healthcare professionals, the true value of this data lies in its potential to transform weight loss discussions from a trial-and-error approach into data-driven, shared decision-making with patients. Integrating genetic markers, such as those we’ve identified in the GLP1R and GIPR genes, with clinical factors provides a clearer picture of how a patient’s unique biology may interact with a specific therapy, allowing both patients and their doctors to proactively manage expectations and tailor care with greater precision from day one.&#8221;</em></strong></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Sincere Thank You to Our Participants</h2>



<p>The GLP-1 Study is ongoing, and our survey is designed to allow participants to share their journey over time so we can continue to investigate how these medications are associated with genetics and health. Discoveries like this simply would not exist without our research participants. Current 23andMe members can choose to contribute answers and to fuel new discoveries.</p>



<p><a href="https://you.23andme.com/research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Participate in the next discovery</a></p>



<div style="width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Author</h4>
<p><strong>James Ashenhurst</strong>, Ph.D. — Sr. Scientist I, Product R&#038;D
</p>
<p>Dr. Ashenhurst is a Senior Scientist at the 23andMe Research Institute who studies how health history, lifestyle, and genetics combine to predict risk for health conditions and differences in medication response.</p>
</div>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>References</strong></h6>



<p>1. Montero, A., Sparks, G., Presiado, M. &amp; Hamel, L. <a href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/kff-health-tracking-poll-may-2024-the-publics-use-and-views-of-glp-1-drugs/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">KFF Health Tracking Poll May 2024: The Public’s Use and Views of GLP-1 Drugs</a> | KFF. </p>



<p>2. Wilding, J. P. H. <em>et al.</em> Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. <em>New Engl J Med</em> <strong>384</strong>, 989–1002 (2021). <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33567185/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33567185/</a></p>



<p>3. Ryan, D. H. <em>et al.</em> Long-term weight loss effects of semaglutide in obesity without diabetes in the SELECT trial. <em>Nat Med</em> <strong>30</strong>, 2049–2057 (2024). <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38740993/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38740993/</a></p>



<p>4. Joy, Bethany, et al. Exploring the rates of Gastrointestinal adverse effects among five GLP-1 receptor agonists: A systematic review and Meta-Analysis of randomized controlled trials. <em>Endocrine</em> <strong>91</strong>(1), 23 (2026). <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41489846/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41489846/</a></p>



<p></p>


Sr. Scientist I, Product R&D

James Ashenhurst

Unlocking the Genetics of GLP-1 Medications: Why Your DNA Matters


<p><em>By Bertram Koelsch, Ph.D.</em></p>



<p>The more we learn about genetics, the more we realize how beautifully complex the story of human variation truly is. For many of us, our first introduction to genetics is in the classroom. As genomic science leaps forward, it is vital that science education keeps pace. A <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/eprint/S9WVJXKE2DBYWHZGBIFV/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently published paper</a> in the <em>Journal of Science Teacher Education</em> highlights both the challenges and the exciting opportunities in updating how science is taught in order to reflect the complexity of modern genetics.</p>



<p>The 23andMe Research Institute is committed to more than just internal discovery; we aim to support and collaborate with professional educators in developing their own expertise in these complex principles. We were honored to have played a supporting role for these educators, and would like to share their work.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-challenge-teaching-complexity">The Challenge: Teaching Complexity</h2>



<p>The paper explores a fundamental shift in genetics education: moving from a &#8220;one-gene, one-trait&#8221; <a href="https://www.genome.gov/genetics-glossary/Mendelian-Inheritance" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mendelian model</a> to an understanding of complex traits that are influenced by hundreds or thousands of genetic variants working in tandem with environmental factors.</p>



<p>Teaching this complexity isn&#8217;t easy. This case study followed a &#8220;co-design process&#8221; involving a middle school science teacher and educators from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and the <a href="https://www.exploratorium.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Exploratorium</a> Museum in San Francisco working together to create professional activities for other science teachers to update how they teach more complex genetics.</p>



<p>Throughout this process the middle school teacher identified several challenges to teaching these complex topics, including:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>A lack of real-world examples tailored to hook students’ interest.</li>



<li>Nuanced word choices that can be confusing when describing the relationship between genes and a trait.</li>



<li>How and when to introduce core ideas and activities to help students build their understanding step-by-step.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-collaborative-solution">A Collaborative Solution</h2>



<p>In order to find interesting examples to capture students&#8217; interest and to support further understanding of complex genetics, the co-design team was able to call on 23andMe Research Institute scientists to share data and real-world examples from research studies of complex traits. In the end the co-design team developed a <a href="https://www.exploratorium.edu/file/inheritance-its-more-complicated" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">classroom activity</a>, using height as a relevant example, to demonstrate the impact of multiple genetic variants on a trait.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="578" src="/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Figure2-Principles-of-a-polygenic-score-1024x578.png" alt="" class="wp-image-35182" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Figure2-Principles-of-a-polygenic-score-1024x578.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Figure2-Principles-of-a-polygenic-score-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Figure2-Principles-of-a-polygenic-score-768x434.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Figure2-Principles-of-a-polygenic-score-880x497.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Figure2-Principles-of-a-polygenic-score-1180x666.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Example of materials shared by 23andMe with the co-design team.</em></figcaption></figure>



<p><strong>&#8220;By providing a space for teachers to work directly with scientists, we create opportunities for them to engage with authentic data and nuanced examples of complex inheritance,&#8221;</strong> said Hilleary Osheroff, of the Teacher Institute at the Exploratorium, one of the authors of this study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Co-author Sara Porter, from the Teacher Education and Higher Education Department at University of North Carolina at Greensboro added, <strong>&#8220;This collaboration allows educators to bridge the gap between abstract theory and classroom practice without the need for extensive time in the laboratory, ultimately empowering them to bring the most current genomic science to their students.&#8221;</strong></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why It Matters</h2>



<p>The importance of robust science education throughout the K-12 years cannot be overstated. By providing students with a more accurate framework for how genetics works, we empower the next generation to better understand their own health and the diversity of the human experience.</p>



<p><strong>“At the 23andMe Research Institute, we believe that genetic literacy is a fundamental tool,”</strong> says Anne Greb, Director of Genomics Education at 23andMe. <strong>“Engaging in community projects like this that support early science education is a priority for us. By supporting teachers today, we are ensuring that the scientists, healthcare providers, and informed citizens of tomorrow have a clear-eyed understanding of the science that connects us all, from understanding their own traits and disease risks to recognizing the genetic relatedness that connects people.”</strong></p>



<p>The responsive nature of the co-design process described in the paper shows that when scientists and teachers work together, they create a &#8220;resource-rich&#8221; environment. We are proud to have played a role in this research and remain dedicated to helping bridge the gap between the lab and the classroom.</p>



<p><strong>Interested in helping a young person in your life learn more about genetics? Check out more educational activities from the </strong><a href="https://www.exploratorium.edu/education/teacher-institute/phenomenal-genome-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Exploratorium</strong></a><strong> and the 23andMe </strong><a href="https://education.23andme.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Genetics Learning Hub</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>



<div style="width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Author</h4>
<p><strong>Bertram Koelsch</strong>, Ph.D. — Director, Product Research &#038; Development
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Bertram Koelsch leads a team of R&#038;D scientists at 23andMe whose work spans the full breadth of the 23andMe experience — from genetic ancestry and relative matching to consumer health insights. Drawing on machine learning and the insights unlocked by 23andMe&#8217;s vast base of research-consented participants, his team builds models that deepen what customers can learn about themselves. With a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from UC Berkeley and UCSF, he brings a rigorous scientific foundation to the challenge of making genetics meaningful and actionable for everyone. At heart, Dr. Koelsch thinks of himself as an engineer — someone driven not just by scientific discovery, but by the desire to build things that tangibly improve people&#8217;s lives. That ethos runs through everything his team does, for example, ensuring polygenic risk scores can empower consumers to take a more proactive role in their own health.</p>
</div>


Bertram Koelsch

Teaching Complex Genetics to Kids: What a New Study Says Works


<p>23andMe&#8217;s blog offers genetics news, customers stories, and articles about research. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="600" height="333" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Blog-Logo-e1521071249823.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-26081" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Blog-Logo-e1521071249823.jpg 600w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Blog-Logo-e1521071249823-300x167.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Blog-Logo-e1521071249823-271x149.jpg 271w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /></figure>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-blog-insights">Blog Insights</h1>



<p>23andMe is the only DTC DNA testing company with FDA authorization. Our blog gives readers a chance to learn more about genetic testing and science. Along with learning about science and research, we offer up tips and insights into the products and what you can learn by using 23andMe.</p>


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