
<p><em>By Éadaoin Harney, Ph.D., and Steven Micheletti, Ph.D.</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-remote-island-at-the-heart-of-history">A Remote Island at the Heart of History</h2>



<p>Located 1,200 miles from the coast of Africa, Saint Helena is perhaps best known as the final place of exile for Napoleon Bonaparte. However, the island&#8217;s genetic story is much more complex than a single French emperor.</p>



<p>While the Island of St. Helena was first sighted by Portuguese explorers in the early 16th century, its modern trajectory began in 1659 when the English East India Company established a permanent settlement. Its strategic position along the vital trade routes between Europe and Asia made it an important resupply station for ships rounding the Cape of Good Hope. This central role in maritime commerce resulted in a diverse blend of inhabitants from European settlers, Chinese laborers, and enslaved people brought from Madagascar, Malaysia, India, and Africa.</p>



<p>Starting in 1840, St. Helena became a pivotal base for the British Royal Navy’s campaign to suppress the transatlantic slave trade. Between 1840 and 1867, the Navy intercepted slave ships and brought approximately 27,000 &#8220;liberated Africans&#8221; to the island. While these individuals were freed from bondage, many had suffered immensely during the Middle Passage, and some of those who did not survive were buried on St. Helena. For centuries, the specific origins of those buried here were lost, until now.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-restoring-lost-connections">Restoring Lost Connections</h2>



<p>In 2007 and 2008 archeologists uncovered the remains of 325 individuals during roadwork on the north coast of St. Helena associated with the construction of the island’s first ever airport. Ancient DNA researchers <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37683613/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sequenced the genomes</a> of 20 of those individuals. This research has provided the first direct evidence of their origins:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Geographic Roots</strong>: DNA revealed that these individuals likely originated from West Central Africa, specifically the region between northern Angola and Gabon.</li>



<li><strong>A Snapshot of the Trade</strong>: The genetic analysis aligned with broader archaeological findings that confirmed a significant sex bias: 17 of the 20 individuals were male. This reflects the documented patterns of the late-stage slave trade.</li>
</ul>



<p><a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members can now see if they share DNA with 7 of the 20 individuals whose genomes were sequenced who are now included in the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature. This update means you may find a genetic connection to these specific historical individuals, helping to restore a genealogical bridge that was once thought to be permanently broken.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-genetic-tapestry-of-modern-saints-nbsp">The Genetic Tapestry of Modern &#8220;Saints&#8221;&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The story of St. Helena doesn&#8217;t end in the 19th century. Today’s islanders, known as &#8220;Saints,&#8221; carry a diverse genetic legacy shaped by the island&#8217;s role as a global crossroads. To investigate the modern genetics of St. Helena we looked at 23andMe members who reported recent ancestors from St. Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha. From this we created our new &#8220;Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha&#8221; Genetic Group allowing 23andMe members to see if they have a connection to people from this British Overseas Territory within the Migrations section of their Ancestry Composition report.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In creating this Genetic Group we noticed some interesting highlights:&nbsp;</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>The modern population is a blend of African, European, and Asian roots.</li>



<li>&#8220;Saints&#8221; often show an interesting bias in their maternal and paternal lines. Maternal haplogroups frequently point toward Austronesian or South Asian ancestry, while paternal lines are often a mix of South Asian and European origins.</li>



<li>Interestingly, there is little overlap between the people who match the liberated Africans in our Historical Matches and those who receive matches to the St. Helena Genetic Group. This might suggest that many of the liberated Africans eventually left the island or died without descendants who remained there, while the modern &#8220;Saints&#8221; who make up this Genetic Group may represent a separate chapter of the island&#8217;s vibrant history.</li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="529" src="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/St-helena-side-by-side-1024x529.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34932" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/St-helena-side-by-side-1024x529.png 1024w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/St-helena-side-by-side-300x155.png 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/St-helena-side-by-side-768x397.png 768w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/St-helena-side-by-side-880x455.png 880w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/St-helena-side-by-side-1180x610.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em><em>The averaged Ancestry Composition of the individuals in the Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha Genetic Group (left) and individuals who have Historical Matches to the The Liberated Africans of St. Helena Island (right).</em></em></figcaption></figure>



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



<p>Genetics is more than just percentages on a map; it can be a tool for historical justice and personal discovery. By studying both the ancient DNA of historical individuals and the data of modern populations, we can honor the legacy of those whose stories were omitted from history books. Whether you are a &#8220;Saint&#8221; yourself or a 23andMe member discovering a new connection to the South Atlantic, these updates remind us that our DNA is a living record of the journeys that shaped our world.</p>



<div style="width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Authors</h4>
<p><strong>Éadaoin Harney</strong>, Ph.D. — Scientist II, Population Genetics R&#038;D
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Éadaoin Harney is an expert in the field of ancient DNA, with over a decade of experience extracting, sequencing, and analyzing the DNA of ancient and historical people from across the globe. Dr. Harney is a Population Geneticist at 23andMe and a Lecturer in the Department of Human Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University, where she teaches courses on human population genetics. Her current research focuses on searching for direct (Identical-by-Descent) genetic connections between historical and living people to learn about historical migrations and to help restore genealogical connections to the past that have been lost to time.</p>
<p><strong>Steven Micheletti</strong>, Ph.D. — Sr. Scientist I, Population Genetics R&#038;D
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Steven Micheletti is a Population Geneticist specializing in the intersection of large-scale genomics and human history. As an architect of models connecting individuals to Genetic Groups, his work provides high-resolution insights into ancestral origins. His research investigates how historical events, such as the Transatlantic Slave Trade, have shaped the genetic landscape of present-day populations and influenced the distribution of health-related variants.</p>
</div>


Genetics of a Global Crossroads: A Deep Dive into Saint Helena’s Ancestry


<p><em>By Alisa Lehman, Ph.D.</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>Personalized medicine disrupts &#8220;one-size-fits-all&#8221; healthcare by using genetic data to address health risks that disproportionately affect the Black and African American community.</li>
<li>By reviewing genetic health and pharmacogenetics reports with doctors, individuals can transition from awareness to action, enabling more tailored, effective, and personalized healthcare.</li>
<li>Participation in genetic research is vital for creating inclusive datasets. The 23andMe Research Institute uses the world’s largest African ancestry research cohort to drive discoveries that lead to more accurate risk assessments and treatments for all.</li></ul>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>Black History Month is a time for reflection, it is also a time for action. <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetics-black-community-health">Last year</a>, we focused on specific health risks that disproportionately affect the Black and African American community. This year, we are discussing how to leverage that knowledge to proactively change your future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-one-size-fits-all-healthcare-nbsp">Beyond &#8220;One-Size-Fits-All&#8221; Healthcare&nbsp;</h2>



<p>The traditional healthcare system often relies on a &#8220;cookie-cutter&#8221; approach: at its best, treating everyone the same; at its worst, allowing bias and discrimination to influence clinical decisions. The goal of personalized medicine is to disrupt this by recognizing that every individual has unique risks, lifestyles, histories, and cultural contexts. By taking into account these unique considerations healthcare professionals can work with you to develop a personalized preventive health plan.&nbsp;</p>



<p>A vital component of this process is understanding your unique genetic makeup. Your DNA provides some of the key data necessary for productive, personalized conversations with your doctor.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-using-genetic-health-results-to-take-personalized-action">Using Genetic Health Results to Take Personalized Action</h2>



<p>A first step towards developing a personalized preventive health plan can include reviewing your genetic health reports. Focus on conditions known to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetics-black-community-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disproportionately impact the Black and African American community</a>, but don’t overlook your <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/pharmacogenetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">pharmacogenetics</a> results.</p>



<p>Pharmacogenetics explores how genetic variants influence how your body processes certain medications. These variants explain why some people experience more side effects or find specific treatments less effective.</p>



<p>Once you have reviewed your genetic data, you can bring these insights to your healthcare professional. <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-and-personalized-healthcare/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Most clinicians</a> recognize that genetics provides a critical data point in understanding the whole picture for their patients. 23andMe <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-members-are-taking-action-on-their-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently published a study</a> showing that when research participants take their results to their doctors they receive personalized medical recommendations, and the vast majority of members follow through on those recommendations. Sharing your genetic results empowers your doctor to provide preventative actions tailored to you.</p>



<p>It&#8217;s also important to review your Pharmacogenetics Reports* (available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members) with your clinician even if you aren’t currently taking medications. Having this information on file can allow your doctor to select the right medication and dosage from the start if you ever need treatment in the future.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout" style="border:1px solid #000; border-collapse:collapse;"><tbody><tr><td>
<h3>Discussing Genetic Results With Your Doctor</h3>
<p>Starting a conversation about genetic results can feel daunting, but preparation builds confidence. While your specific questions will depend on your results, use this checklist as a starting guide for your visit.</p>
<p><strong>Remember to bring:</strong></p>
<ul><li>Your 23andMe results.</li>
<li>Your personal and family health history.</li>
<li>A list of symptoms you have experienced (if any).</li>
<li>A list of all medications, vitamins, minerals, and/or herbal supplements you are taking (if any).</li></ul>
<p><strong>Questions to ask your doctor:</strong></p>
<ul><li>Is there any additional testing I should consider?</li>
<li>Are there specific symptoms I should be on the lookout for?</li>
<li>When would I need to make another appointment (for example, new symptoms or regular check-ups)?</li>
<li>Are my parents, children, or siblings at risk?</li></ul>
<p>It can help to work with a supportive healthcare community that may include a combination of healthcare professionals, advocacy and community-based groups (for example, groups like the <a href="https://colorectalcancer.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Colorectal Cancer Alliance</a> or <a href="https://www.sc101.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sickle Cell 101</a> who help offer specialized resources), and peer and family support. This encouraging and supportive system may help you to better understand additional risk factors you may have, can help you reduce and manage risks, and feel empowered to make healthy lifestyle choices.</p>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Future of Inclusive Research</h2>



<p>Closing health disparity gaps requires active participation in the science that shapes health outcomes. When scientists have representative data, they can discover insights that lead to more accurate risk assessments and more effective treatments for the Black and African American community.</p>



<p>This is one of the reasons the 23andMe Research Institute continues to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/the-power-of-representation-in-genetic-research" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prioritize genetic studies</a> on conditions that impact this community. This work is only possible through the participation of those who make up the world’s largest genetic research cohort of individuals with African ancestry. Research participants aren&#8217;t just learning about their past, they are taking action to build a more equitable future.</p>



<div style="width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Author</h4>
<p><strong>Alisa Lehman</strong>, Ph.D. — Sr. Manager, Product Science
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Alisa Lehman has been working at 23andMe since 2015 creating scientifically accurate, consumer-friendly genetic reports on ancestry and health topics. Dr. Lehman holds a B.S. in Biology from MIT, and a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Stanford University.</p>
</div>



<p></p>



<p>* 23andMe PGS Pharmacogenetics reports: The 23andMe test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 3 variants in the CYP2C19 gene, 2 variants in the DPYD gene and 1 variant in the SLCO1B1 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 SLCO1B1 and DPYD and certain CYP2C19 results should be confirmed by an independent genetic test prescribed by your own healthcare provider before taking any medical action.&nbsp; 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 Pharmacogenetic reports, visit <a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.23andMe.com/test-info</a>.</p>


Black History Month: Leveraging Genetics for a Personalized Health Plan


<p><em>By</em> <em>Ruth Tennen, Ph.D.</em>, <em>and Alisa Lehman, Ph.D.</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>For people with Raynaud’s syndrome, small blood vessels in the fingers and toes narrow too much in response to cold or stress, which can cause the skin to change color and feel cold and numb.</li>
<li>Raynaud’s syndrome has a strong genetic component. 23andMe’s new Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) Report analyzes over 2,000 genetic variants to provide a personalized estimate of your likelihood of having the condition.</li>
<li>While genetics play a major role, other factors like climate, repetitive hand motions, and certain underlying health conditions can also influence your likelihood of having Raynaud&#8217;s. Individuals can manage symptoms by dressing in layers, exercising regularly to improve circulation, and limiting triggers like nicotine and caffeine.
</li></ul>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>At the 23andMe Research Institute, our mission has always been to turn complex genetic data into meaningful health insights. Today, we are excited to announce the latest addition to our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ membership: the Raynaud&#8217;s Syndrome Polygenic Risk Score (PRS) Report*, which provides an estimate of an individual&#8217;s likelihood of having Raynaud&#8217;s. Understanding your genetic predisposition can be helpful in taking proactive steps to identifying and managing symptoms of Raynaud&#8217;s.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetics-of-raynaud-s">Genetics of Raynaud&#8217;s</h2>



<p>Raynaud&#8217;s syndrome is a condition where small blood vessels in the fingers and toes react more strongly than usual to cold or stress. During a Raynaud&#8217;s attack these blood vessels narrow, which temporarily limits blood flow. Skin may change color to white and blue as blood flow decreases and then to red as blood flow returns. For those with darker skin tones, the skin may become pale and then dark purple. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="612" height="252" src="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Raynauds-hero.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34890" style="width:348px;height:auto" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Raynauds-hero.png 612w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Raynauds-hero-300x124.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 612px) 100vw, 612px" /></figure>



<p>In the U.S. up to 5% of people have Raynaud&#8217;s syndrome, and genetics is known to be a strong contributor. A recent large-scale <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39142284/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified eight locations in the genome</a> associated with Raynaud&#8217;s. These genes play important roles in the body&#8217;s stress response, the immune system, and the cells lining blood vessels, providing insights into the biological basis of Raynaud&#8217;s and why some people are more likely than others to have the condition.</p>



<p>23andMe researchers independently investigated if it was possible to build a polygenic risk score (PRS) for Raynaud&#8217;s. A PRS is a statistical model that uses information from many genetic markers across the genome to estimate an individual&#8217;s likelihood of having a condition. Researchers were able to generate a PRS that analyzes more than 2,000 genetic variants to estimate the likelihood of having Raynaud&#8217;s syndrome. This PRS, which powers 23andMe&#8217;s Raynaud&#8217;s Syndrome report, is the product of rigorous genetic research built upon a cycle of discovery driven by data from more than 3 million consented research participants. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-beyond-genetics-risk-factors">Beyond Genetics: Risk Factors</h2>



<p>While your DNA plays a role, several other factors can increase your likelihood of having Raynaud&#8217;s, including:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Birth sex and climate:</strong> Raynaud&#8217;s is more common in women and those living in colder regions.</li>



<li><strong>Certain health conditions and </strong><strong>medications</strong><strong>: </strong>Conditions such as scleroderma, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and certain blood vessel diseases can increase risk of secondary Raynaud&#8217;s, which is caused by another underlying health condition or other external factor. So can some medications used for high blood pressure, migraine, and ADHD.</li>



<li><strong>Work environment:</strong> Frequent use of vibrating tools or repetitive hand motions (like typing or playing piano) can increase risk for Raynaud&#8217;s.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-taking-action">Taking Action</h2>



<p>While you can&#8217;t change your DNA, understanding your genetics can empower you to manage your environment. If you experience Raynaud&#8217;s symptoms, experts recommend:</p>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Dress in layers and wear mittens when it&#8217;s cold outside, and take steps to stay warm even in air-conditioned rooms or frozen food aisles.</li>



<li>Try warming up your car for a minute before driving, and use insulated cups for cold drinks to avoid sudden temperature shifts.</li>



<li>Exercise regularly to improve overall blood flow, which can reduce the frequency and severity of Raynaud&#8217;s attacks.</li>



<li>Limit caffeine and nicotine. Both substances can narrow blood vessels and make Raynaud&#8217;s symptoms worse.</li>



<li>Since stress can also be a trigger, practices like meditation or deep breathing can help keep attacks at bay.</li>
</ol>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-discover-your-genetic-predisposition">Discover Your Genetic Predisposition</h2>



<p>The Raynaud&#8217;s Syndrome PRS report was made possible thanks to millions of consented 23andMe participants who contribute to research. This collaborative effort empowers 23andMe scientists to uncover new genetic insights, deliver personalized information to our members, and potentially help identify future treatments for people to live more comfortably.</p>



<p>If you are a 23andMe+ Premium member, you can now access your Raynaud’s Syndrome PRS Report (along with your other Health Predisposition reports) to see how your genetics influence your chances of having this condition.</p>



<p><em>Note: Due to limited data, the PRS driving this report failed to meet our performance standards for members of East and Southeast Asian descent, and members from these ancestries are not able to receive a personalized genetic result at this time. We hope with additional data and research we may be able to provide these members a result in the future.</em></p>



<p>* The 23andMe Raynaud’s Syndrome PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 2,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of experiencing Raynaud’s syndrome. 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 Raynaud’s Syndrome 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.</p>



<div style="width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Authors</h4>
<p><strong>Ruth Tennen</strong>, Ph.D. — Senior Product Scientist
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Ruth Tennen is a scientist at the 23andMe Research Institute, where she translates genetic discoveries into clear, accurate health reports for 23andMe members. Her work centers on making these insights accessible and relevant to everyone, especially communities that are often underrepresented in genetic research. Alongside her work on reports, she loves creating educational content and talking with the public about genetics. Dr. Tennen holds an A.B. in Molecular Biology from Princeton and a Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from Stanford. Before coming to 23andMe, she worked at the State Department and as a lecturer at Stanford.</p>
<p><strong>Alisa Lehman</strong>, Ph.D. — Sr. Manager, Product Science
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Alisa Lehman has been working at 23andMe since 2015 creating scientifically accurate, consumer-friendly genetic reports on ancestry and health topics. Dr. Lehman holds a B.S. in Biology from MIT, and a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Stanford University.</p>
</div>



<p></p>


Understanding Your Genetic Likelihood for Raynaud’s Syndrome


<p><em>By Stacey Detweiler, MS, </em>CGC</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>Proactive Risk Detection: 82% of participants were unaware of their genetic risks prior to testing, showing that direct-to-consumer genetic testing identifies high-impact health risks often missed by traditional clinical screening.</li>
<li>High Medical Follow-Through: When members shared results with healthcare professionals, it led to 86% of them receiving at least one medical recommendation, ranging from screenings all the way up to preventive surgeries, with an impressive 88% patient adherence rate.</li>
<li>Bridging the Gap: There is a significant opportunity to better educate healthcare professionals, particularly primary care providers, and encourage the 54% of members who haven&#8217;t yet shared their results to do so.</li></ul>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>Every day, people turn to 23andMe to better understand how their genetics can impact their health. While our DNA kits offer a wealth of information, for many, the most critical discovery is a high-impact health result that can be addressed through personalized medical action.</p>



<p>To understand how these insights translate into real-world care, researchers at 23andMe recently studied over 1,000 consenting participants who received results for medically actionable conditions, such as hereditary cancers and cardiovascular diseases. We wanted to know: are people turning this data into action? The short answer is yes.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2949774426009003" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Our results</a>, recently published in <em><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/genetics-in-medicine-open" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genetics in Medicine Open</a></em>, demonstrate that these high-impact findings are serving as a catalyst for proactive health management. Here are the key takeaways from the study.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-people-are-finding-unknown-health-risks">People are finding unknown health risks</h2>



<p>This study found that most individuals who had a medically actionable genetic variant identified through 23andMe were unaware of their genetic risk beforehand. In fact, 82% of them had no prior clinical genetic testing for that variant, even though most (68%) reported a personal or family history of a related health condition.</p>



<p>These findings are a reminder that most genetic testing is only ordered to help diagnose those who are already sick or those with a strong family history of a condition. And even then, people who do qualify for genetic testing are often missed by the healthcare system<sup>[1][2]</sup>. The findings of this study are important because it shows that direct-to-consumer genetic testing can identify people who might otherwise go undetected through traditional healthcare channels.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genetic-results-drive-real-medical-action">Genetic results drive real medical action</h2>



<p>The most exciting finding? Genetic results don’t just provide new insights, they spur real-world change. When people took their genetic results to a healthcare professional, it often led to important, personalized health actions. Almost 1,500 medical recommendations, including follow-up blood testing, cancer screenings, starting medications and preventive surgery, were made by healthcare professionals based on individuals’ genetic results.</p>



<p>And once those recommendations were given, people followed them! The overall adherence to medical recommendations was high at 88%. Whether it was a recommendation for earlier screenings, medication, or even prophylactic surgery, people followed their doctor’s medical advice and took action based on their genetic results.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-there-are-opportunities-for-an-even-greater-benefit">There are opportunities for an even greater benefit</h2>



<p>While the findings are overwhelmingly positive, the study also identified a few specific ways we can help more people turn high-impact results into meaningful health actions.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Sharing results with doctors:</strong> Less than half of the research participants (46%) in this study reported sharing their results with a healthcare professional. The good news is that for those who did share, 86% received at least one medical recommendation. This means there is a big opportunity to encourage more people to share genetic results with their doctors and for us to make it easier to do so.</li>



<li><strong>Educating healthcare professionals on genetic testing:</strong> We found a gap in how participants felt about their interactions with different types of healthcare professionals. Those who shared results with a specialist were more likely to say that specialists (such as oncologists or cardiologists) were knowledgeable about their results compared to those who shared results with their primary care provider. This highlights a need for more education about genetic testing, especially for frontline primary care providers. Good news, this is exactly what we plan to do. Building on years of engagement with healthcare professionals, the 23andMe Research Institute plans to continue to develop and expand our education and clinical support resources to empower healthcare professionals to turn genetic data into better patient care.</li>



<li><strong>Addressing health inequity:</strong> This study also uncovered a potential disparity. Individuals with variants in the <em>TTR</em> gene, which were more common in non-White individuals, had the lowest rates of prior genetic testing and were less likely to receive medical recommendations after sharing their results with a healthcare professional. This is a critical insight that informs how direct-to-consumer genetic testing could help uncover and address health inequities, especially for conditions that are more common in historically underserved communities.</li>
</ul>



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



<p>This study provides powerful evidence that direct-to-consumer genetic testing can make meaningful differences in the healthcare actions taken by individuals and their doctors. High-impact genetic results that are easily accessible and understandable can empower individuals with critical health insights, which, when shared with a healthcare professional, can personalize their care and lead to life-changing preventive actions!</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-references">References:</h3>



<p>[1] Childers CP et al. (2017). “National Estimates of Genetic Testing in Women With a History of Breast or Ovarian Cancer.” J Clin Oncol. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28820644/">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28820644/</a>&nbsp;</p>



<p>[2] Manickam K et al. (2018). “Exome Sequencing-Based Screening for BRCA1/2 Expected Pathogenic Variants Among Adult Biobank Participants.” JAMA Netw Open. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30646163/">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30646163/</a></p>



<div style="max-width: 750px; width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Author</h4>
<p><strong>Stacey Detweiler</strong>, M.S. CGC — Manager, Genomic Health Programs &#038; Medical Affairs
</p>
<p> 
Stacey Detweiler is a licensed genetic counselor and an expert in consumer genomics and precision medicine. As 23andMe Research Institute’s Manager of Genomic Health Programs &#038; Medical Affairs, Stacey leverages her clinical background to ensure genetic insights are medically accurate and deeply impactful for 23andMe members. She began her career in clinical practice at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and the Palo Alto Medical Foundation and has held leadership roles within the National Society of Genetic Counselors’ Precision Medicine group. Her current research focuses on &#8220;closing the loop&#8221; between genetic discovery and clinical action, specifically investigating how individuals and healthcare providers use genomic data to personalize preventive care. She is a firm believer in the promise of personalized medicine and is passionate about expanding access to proactive genetic testing.</p>
</div>



<p></p>


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

New Research Demonstrates: 23andMe Members are Taking Action on Their Health


<p>Since 2014, a powerful collaboration between <a href="https://palmerlab.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Abraham Palmer, Ph.D.</a> and <a href="https://www.sanchezroigelab.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sandra Sanchez-Roige, Ph.D.</a> at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) and 23andMe has been at the forefront of understanding how our DNA influences complex human behaviors. This enduring partnership has yielded groundbreaking insights published in high-impact journals such as <em>Nature Neuroscience</em>, the <em>American Journal of Psychiatry</em>, and others. Some of these studies include the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/wait-new-genetic-research-impulsivity" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first-ever genome-wide association study of delay discounting</a> (the tendency to devalue larger future rewards in favor of smaller more immediate rewards), identification of more than a <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/the-genetics-of-alcoholism" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dozen variants associated with alcohol use disorder</a>, the discovery of the shared genetic associations between <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/the-genetics-of-loneliness-and-its-impact-on-health" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">loneliness and other health conditions</a>, and one of the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-insights-into-cannabis-use" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">largest genetic studies on cannabis use</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="761" src="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Palmer-and-Sanchez-Roige-1024x761.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34870" style="width:533px;height:auto" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Palmer-and-Sanchez-Roige-1024x761.jpg 1024w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Palmer-and-Sanchez-Roige-300x223.jpg 300w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Palmer-and-Sanchez-Roige-768x571.jpg 768w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Palmer-and-Sanchez-Roige-880x654.jpg 880w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Palmer-and-Sanchez-Roige-1180x877.jpg 1180w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Palmer-and-Sanchez-Roige.jpg 2018w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-shared-pursuit-of-knowledge">A Shared Pursuit of Knowledge</h2>



<p>At its core, this collaboration is driven by a shared vision: to identify the genetic underpinnings of behaviors that significantly impact human health. The goal is not just academic; it&#8217;s about identifying novel insights that can lead to better prevention, intervention, and treatment strategies for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. By understanding the genetic factors that contribute to these complex traits, researchers can pave the way for more personalized and effective approaches.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-heart-of-the-research">The Heart of the Research</h2>



<p>These remarkable discoveries would be impossible without the generous contributions of 23andMe research participants. Millions of individuals have voluntarily consented to share their de-identified genetic and health data, providing the large sample sizes that are necessary to identify subtle yet significant genetic associations. This collective effort is the engine driving some of the largest behavioral genetic studies ever conducted.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-testament-to-enduring-science">A Testament to Enduring Science</h2>



<p>Science, by its very nature, takes time. New discoveries often lead to new questions, fueling further exploration. The 12-year span of this partnership is a testament to the dedication and long-term vision of both 23andMe and Drs. Palmer and Sanchez-Roige. It represents a sustained commitment to tackling some of the most challenging questions in human behavior, a commitment that continues to bear fruit.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-proven-through-peer-reviewed-science">Proven Through Peer-Reviewed Science</h2>



<p>The collaboration’s journey began when the first of three surveys was developed and deployed to 23andMe research participants in 2014. Just three years later, in 2017, the first <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29058377/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">peer-reviewed publication</a> from this collaboration was published, showing that the online survey taken by 23andMe research participants can effectively be used to identify genetic factors underlying alcohol use disorder.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Since 2017, the momentum has only grown, with 16 additional papers already published and many more on the horizon. These papers represent a significant contribution to the global scientific community and stand as a direct result of the millions of research participants who have contributed their data and time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trusted Partners</h2>



<p>From the perspective of Drs. Palmer and Sanchez-Roige, the decision to work with, and crucially, <em>continue</em> working with 23andMe for over a decade speaks volumes about the company&#8217;s rigorous research standards and commitment to scientific excellence.</p>



<p>&#8220;23andMe offers an unparalleled resource for genetic research,&#8221; says <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/abraham-palmer-ucsd" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dr. Palmer</a>. &#8220;Their commitment to data privacy, ethical research, and the scale of their participant base makes them an ideal collaborator for tackling novel genetic questions that would be nearly impossible to answer elsewhere.&#8221;</p>



<p>&#8220;One of the reasons we’ve sustained this partnership for over a decade is 23andMe’s commitment to ethical oversight,&#8221; continues Dr. Palmer. &#8220;Every study we conduct is overseen by an independent Institutional Review Board (IRB), ensuring that participant privacy and informed consent are always the top priority. It allows us to focus on our research questions because we know 23andMe has systems in place to uphold the highest ethical standards.&#8221;</p>



<p>&#8220;What makes 23andMe a truly unique research environment is the strong engagement of the participants,&#8221; says Dr. Sanchez-Roige. &#8220;Unlike traditional studies that might take years to recruit a few hundred people, we can deploy a survey and receive thousands of thoughtful responses in a matter of days. This agility allows us to ask entirely new questions about behavior and environment, collecting the rich phenotypic data necessary to understand complex issues like aspects related to opioid use in ways we never could before.&#8221;</p>



<p>Dr. Sanchez-Roige continues, &#8220;working with the 23andMe Research Institute is more than just having access to a database; it has been a productive collaboration with outstanding colleagues. And the research participants are also devoted to contributing to science, meaning we aren&#8217;t just looking at static data; we are actively learning from millions of people who are as interested in these scientific answers as we are.&#8221;</p>



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



<p>As this research moves into the next phase of this partnership, the focus is expanding beyond genetics alone. Dr. Palmer says, &#8220;our recent work has demonstrated that answers to survey questions — even without genetic data — are powerful predictors for identifying individuals at risk for opioid use disorder.&#8221; Dr. Sanchez-Roige adds, &#8220;The data we’ve collected argues strongly for using a few questions to flag a small subset of individuals who are at high risk for opioid addiction before it&#8217;s too late. This project is ongoing, our survey on opioid use is still available for 23andMe research participants as we seek to obtain 500,000 completed responses.&#8221;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Participants</h3>



<p>The true scale of this achievement is best measured in the time and dedication of research participants. &#8220;To put it in perspective, a single 15-minute survey that receives 500,000 responses represents the equivalent of 14.25 years of research participant time!&#8221; says Dr. Palmer. The ability to crowdsource data at this scale, in genotyped individuals, is what makes the 23andMe Research Institute a trusted research partner and a global leader in genetics and behavioral science.</p>



<p>The insights gained over the last 12 years are already reshaping how we understand the human experience. As we continue to ask new questions and uncover new associations, we move closer to a world where substance use disorders are met with better tools, deeper empathy, and more effective treatments.</p>



<p>Complete the <a href="https://you.23andme.com/research/surveys/opioid_pain_medication/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Opioid Pain Medication Survey</a> to help advance research efforts focused on the connection between genes and opioids.</p>



<p><em>Reference to UC San Diego does not imply endorsement or support of any product, service or company involved.</em></p>



<div style="max-width: 750px; width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Collaborators</h4>
<p><strong>Abraham Palmer</strong>, Ph.D.
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Abraham Palmer is a Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego. His current research emphasizes leveraging large-scale human genetic datasets alongside powerful preclinical models to identify risk genes, map biological pathways, and translate genetic discoveries into a deeper mechanistic understanding of addiction and related psychiatric outcomes. He has been a member of 23andMe since 2012 and has completed more surveys than 99% of 23andMe research participants. He is an avid cyclist who lives in San Diego, California with his wife, two teenaged children, two cats and one dog.
<br><a href="https://palmerlab.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">www.palmerlab.org</a></p>
<p><strong>Sandra Sanchez-Roige</strong>, Ph.D.
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Sandra Sanchez-Roige is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California San Diego. Her research focuses on identifying the biological drivers that place people at risk for substance use disorders using genetics, genomics, medical bioinformatics, and cross-species translational approaches. She has been a member of 23andMe since 2016, is “likely to prefer chocolate over vanilla ice cream” and has a variant in the ACTN3 gene that means her “muscle composition is common in elite power athletes”, according to 23andMe reports. She co-leads the Sanchez-Roige Lab with Lisa, a talented British Shorthair cat, and Margot, a curious six-year-old girl, and Victor, a partner, slide beta-tester, and conference travel companion.
<br><a href="https://www.sanchezroigelab.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.sanchezroigelab.org</a></p>
</div>



<p></p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class="has-fixed-layout" style="border:1px solid #000; border-collapse:collapse;"><tbody><tr><td>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Publications:</h3>
<ol>
<li>Sanchez-Roige, S et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29058377/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-wide association study of alcohol use disorder identification test (AUDIT) scores in 20 328 research participants of European ancestry.”</a> <em>Addiction Biology</em> vol. 24,1 (2019): 121-131.</li>
<li>Sanchez-Roige, S et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29230059/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-wide association study of delay discounting in 23,217 adult research participants of European ancestry.”</a> <em>Nature Neuroscience</em> vol. 21,1 (2018): 16-18.</li>
<li>Pasman, J A et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30150663/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“GWAS of lifetime cannabis use reveals new risk loci, genetic overlap with psychiatric traits, and a causal influence of schizophrenia.”</a> <em>Nature Neuroscience</em> vol. 21,9 (2018): 1161-1170.</li>
<li>Sanchez-Roige, S et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30336701/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-Wide Association Study Meta-Analysis of the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) in Two Population-Based Cohorts.”</a> The <em>American Journal of Psychiatry</em> vol. 176,2 (2019): 107-118.</li>
<li>Sanchez-Roige, S et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30718321/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-Wide Association Studies of Impulsive Personality Traits (BIS-11 and UPPS-P) and Drug Experimentation in up to 22,861 Adult Research Participants Identify Loci in the CACNA1I and CADM2 genes.”</a> <em>J Neurosci.</em> vol. 39,13 (2019): 2562-2572.</li>
<li>Karlsson Linnér, R et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30643258/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-wide association analyses of risk tolerance and risky behaviors in over 1 million individuals identify hundreds of loci and shared genetic influences.”</a> <em>Nature Genetic</em>s vol. 51,2 (2019): 245-257.</li>
<li>Abdellaoui, A et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31518406/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Phenome-wide investigation of health outcomes associated with genetic predisposition to loneliness.”</a> <em>Human Molecular Genetics</em> vol. 28,22 (2019): 3853-3865.</li>
<li>Dennis, J et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31796895/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genetic risk for major depressive disorder and loneliness in sex-specific associations with coronary artery disease.”</a> <em>Molecular Psychiatry</em> vol. 26,8 (2021): 4254-4264.</li>
<li>Gustavson, D E et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32716714/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“The Latent Genetic Structure of Impulsivity and Its Relation to Internalizing Psychopathology.”</a> <em>Psychological Science</em> vol. 31,8 (2020): 1025-1035.</li>
<li>Sanchez-Roige, S et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34728798/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-wide association study of problematic opioid prescription use in 132,113 23andMe research participants of European ancestry.”</a> <em>Molecular Psychiatry</em> vol. 26,11 (2021): 6209-6217.</li>
<li>Sanchez-Roige, S et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37173343/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“CADM2 is implicated in impulsive personality and numerous other traits by genome- and phenome-wide association studies in humans and mice.”</a> <em>Translational Psychiatry</em> vol. 13,1 167 (2023).</li>
<li>Gustavson, D E et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39323941/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Executive Function and Impulsivity Predict Distinct Genetic Variance in Internalizing Problems, Externalizing Problems, Thought Disorders, and Compulsive Disorders: A Genomic Structural Equation Modeling Study.”</a> <em>Clin Psychol Sci.</em> vol. 12,5 (2024): 865-881.</li>
<li>Thorpe, H H A et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38858598/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-wide association studies of coffee intake in UK/US participants of European ancestry uncover cohort-specific genetic associations.”</a> <em>Neuropsychopharmacology</em> vol. 49,10 (2024): 1609-1618.</li>
<li>Jennings, M V et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38580523/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“A phenome-wide association and Mendelian randomisation study of alcohol use variants in a diverse cohort comprising over 3 million individuals.”</a> <em>EBioMedicine</em> vol. 103 (2024): 105086.</li>
<li>Mallard, T T et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41152253/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Characterizing the Pleiotropic Architecture of Impulsivity and Its Links to Psychopathology and Neurodevelopment.”</a> <em>The American Journal of Psychiatry</em> vol. 183,1 (2026): 31-47.</li>
<li>Thorpe, H H A et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41077612/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-wide association studies of lifetime and frequency of cannabis use in 131,895 individuals.”</a> <em>Molecular Psychiatry</em> vol. 31,2 (2026): 1061-1073.</li>
<li>Thorpe, H H A et al. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41286433/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“Genome-wide association study of delay discounting identifies 11 loci and reveals transdiagnostic associations across mental and physical health.”</a> <em>Molecular Psychiatry</em>, 10.1038/s41380-025-03356-8. (2025).</li>
</ol>
</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p></p>


A Decade of Discovery: Unraveling the Genetics of Behavior with 23andMe and UCSD


<p><em>By Éadaoin Harney, Ph.D</em>.</p>



<p>Long-distance relationships are nothing new. In the 6th century, the Silk Road was the ultimate connector: a thousands-of-miles-long highway spanning from Asia to Southern Europe, that brought people, religions, and traditions together. This Valentine’s Day, we’re looking at the story of a partnership that emerged from this ancient trade route.</p>



<p>In 2005, archaeologists discovered a joint tomb just outside the ancient Chinese capital of Chang’an (modern-day Xi&#8217;an). According to inscriptions found at the site, the tomb belonged to a man named Li Dan and his wife, a couple who had been laid to rest there approximately 1,500 years ago.</p>



<p>While a DNA test cannot technically &#8220;prove&#8221; if two people were in love, their shared burial and the unique mix of designs inspired by two distinctive cultures found on their tomb suggest a connection that defied geographical barriers.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-mystery-written-in-stone">A Mystery Written in Stone</h2>



<p>For centuries, the story of this couple was a riddle hidden in plain sight. Li Dan’s funeral inscription made two contradictory claims: it stated he was a descendant of prestigious Chinese aristocratic clans, yet it also identified his father and grandfather as Brahmins from ancient South Asian kingdoms.</p>



<p>The rest of the tomb only added to the mystery, as it featured a fusion of cultures. Although the tomb was built in a traditional Chinese architectural style, it was decorated with a mixture of local mythical figures, like the Four Divine Beasts, and foreign guardians that resembled Buddhist statues from India. Even more striking was the discovery of a gold coin from the Eastern Roman Empire found in the wife’s mouth—a custom common along the Silk Road but far from the local norm.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="748" height="890" src="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Li_Dan_tomb_entrance_line_drawing.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34839" style="width:337px;height:auto" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Li_Dan_tomb_entrance_line_drawing.jpg 748w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Li_Dan_tomb_entrance_line_drawing-252x300.jpg 252w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Li_Dan_tomb_entrance_line_drawing-740x880.jpg 740w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 748px) 100vw, 748px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>A line drawing of the entrance to Li Dan&#8217;s tomb</em></figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-cross-border-connection-written-in-dna">A Cross-Border Connection Written in DNA</h2>



<p>Late last year, a team of researchers decided to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105474" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">study the couple’s DNA</a> to help resolve the contradictions found in their tomb. The results provided the first direct genomic evidence of a 6th-century couple with such distinct ancestral backgrounds.</p>



<p>Genetic analysis revealed that Li Dan had northern South Asian ancestry. His genetic profile showed broad similarities to present-day Brahmin groups, supporting the inscriptions on his tomb suggesting his family belonged to this community. In contrast, his wife’s ancestry was local to Chang’an, tracing back to ancient farmers of the Middle Yellow River in northern China. The unique mix of Chinese and South Asian influences discovered in their tomb reflects a blending of cultures that likely characterized their lives.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-home-at-the-heart-of-the-world">A Home at the Heart of the World</h2>



<p>We may never know how they felt about each other, but their tomb tells us how they may have lived. Li Dan was a high-status traveler who arrived in Chang’an to expound Buddhist scriptures after studying in the kingdom of Jibin. Rather than remaining an outsider, he settled down, married a local woman, and adopted a Chinese surname, all while keeping the traditions of his homeland alive.</p>



<p>This Valentine&#8217;s Day, their story reminds us that even 1,500 years ago, the most enduring connections can bridge different worlds.</p>



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



<p>Want to see if you’re genetically connected to this ancient couple, or to hundreds of other historical individuals? The <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<div style="max-width: 700px; width: 100%; margin: 0 auto; text-align: justify; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Author</h4>
<p><strong>Éadaoin Harney</strong>, Ph.D. — Scientist II, Population Genetics R&#038;D
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Éadaoin Harney is an expert in the field of ancient DNA, with over a decade of experience extracting, sequencing, and analyzing the DNA of ancient and historical people from across the globe. Dr. Harney is a Population Geneticist at 23andMe and a Lecturer in the Department of Human Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University, where she teaches courses on human population genetics. Her current research focuses on searching for direct (Identical-by-Descent) genetic connections between historical and living people to learn about historical migrations and to help restore genealogical connections to the past that have been lost to time.</p>

</div>


New Historical Matches Could Link You to This 6th Century “Cross-Border” Couple


<p><em>By Alisa Lehman, Ph.D.</em></p>



<p>Black History Month is a time to honor the resilience and contributions of the Black community. At the 23andMe Research Institute, we recognize that our understanding of human health and genetics is deeply rooted in the participation of people of African descent, whose contributions are essential to shaping one of the most diverse genetic research cohorts in the world.</p>



<p>Despite decades of progress in genetics, people of African descent <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39694036/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">remain vastly underrepresented in biomedical research</a>. That gap limits what science can uncover and who ultimately benefits from those discoveries. </p>



<p>Through member participation and programs aimed at <a href="https://www.23andme.com/global-genetics/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">increasing research representation from certain global regions</a>, today, the 23andMe Research Institute is proud to host the world’s largest genetic research cohort of individuals with African ancestry reflecting the deep genetic diversity of African and African American communities and humanity as a whole. This diversity of research participants helps to drive discoveries that benefit all of us.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-from-participation-to-personal-insights">From Participation to Personal Insights</h2>



<p>It&#8217;s important that the new insights generated from our members&#8217; contributions to research are returned to you. The contributions of consented Black and African American research participants has led to significant enhancements in the member experience. For example:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Expanded Genetic Groups:</strong> Over 250 Genetic Groups in <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-new-era-for-african-genetic-groups-at-23andme" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Africa</a>, more than 200 <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-update-connects-many-african-american-customers-to-southern-roots" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">African American</a> Genetic Groups, and 19 <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-adds-more-detail-for-afro-caribbean-ancestry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Afro-Caribbean</a> Genetic Groups that have come as a direct result of more diverse data from 23andMe customers who have consented to participate in research.</li>



<li><strong>Targeted Health Reports:</strong> Through the years we have delivered insights into traits and conditions that disproportionately affect the Black and African American community, such as <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/carrier/sickle-cell-anemia/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sickle cell anemia</a>, <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/g6pd-deficiency/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">G6PD deficiency</a>, and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/the-duffy-antigen-gene-a-clue-behind-white-blood-cell-differences" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duffy antigen status</a>.</li>
</ul>



<p>But the impact of this research community extends far beyond individual reports and features for our members. It is fundamentally advancing what humanity knows about itself.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-global-impact-landmarks-in-research">Global Impact: Landmarks in Research</h2>



<p>By choosing to participate in our research program, our members are helping rewrite history books and shape the future of medicine. Here are a few ways our research cohort is making an impact:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-1-uncovering-lost-history">1. Uncovering Lost History</h3>



<p>23andMe researchers used DNA to connect living people to enslaved and free African Americans buried at the <a href="https://catoctinfurnace.org/ironworker/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Catoctin Furnace</a> historical site. This <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/historical-dna-connection-to-early-enslaved-and-free-african-americans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">landmark work</a> shows how DNA can be used to both restore some knowledge of the individuals buried at sites like this, as well as help bridge the gap left by missing historical records to living descendants, restoring stories that time and systemic erasure tried to hide.</p>



<p style="padding-left: 20pt;">Harney, Éadaoin et al. “The genetic legacy of African Americans from Catoctin Furnace.” Science (New York, N.Y.) vol. 381,6657 (2023): eade4995. doi:10.1126/science.ade4995</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-2-mapping-the-transatlantic-legacy">2. Mapping the Transatlantic Legacy</h3>



<p>Our large-scale study on the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/transatlantic-slave-trade" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">transatlantic slave trade</a> provided a deeper look into the genetic impact of the Middle Passage. By analyzing the genomes of over 50,000 research participants, we’ve been able to better understand the regional origins and the complex history of the African diaspora in the Americas. Ultimately, this research may empower participants to reconnect to histories that were severed by the transatlantic slave trade.</p>



<p style="padding-left: 20pt;">Micheletti, Steven J et al. “Genetic Consequences of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in the Americas.” American journal of human genetics vol. 107,2 (2020): 265-277. doi:10.1016/j.ajhg.2020.06.012</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-3-refining-understanding-of-sickle-cell-trait">3. Refining Understanding of Sickle Cell Trait</h3>



<p>Our research study of <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-research-on-sickle-cell-trait" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sickle cell trait</a> was the largest and most diverse study of this trait, and included more than 4 million consented research participants. This important study showed that those with sickle cell trait (meaning people who carry one copy of the HbS variant in the HBB gene) do have a slightly increased likelihood of developing harmful blood clots. However, the magnitude of that risk is still below other genetic factors (such as Factor V Leiden) that are also known to increase the risk of harmful blood clots. While having sickle cell trait is typically considered being a carrier without any impact to your own health, this research shows that the estimated eight to 10 percent of African Americans who have sickle cell trait may benefit from knowing about potential risks (especially in other situations that may increase the chances of harmful blood clots, such as surgeries or hospitalizations). </p>



<p><strong>Learn more about <a href="https://www.23andme.com/sickle-cell-awareness-program/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Sickle Cell Carrier Status Awareness Program</a>.</strong></p>



<p style="padding-left: 20pt;">Lin, Keng-Han et al. “Ancestry-independent risk of venous thromboembolism in individuals with sickle cell trait vs factor V Leiden.” Blood advances vol. 8,21 (2024): 5710-5718. doi:10.1182/bloodadvances.2024014252</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ongoing-need-for-research">Ongoing need for research</h2>



<p>Scientific progress must benefit everyone and to do that we must continue to engage diverse participants in research. We remain committed to ongoing research and collaboration with the Black and African American community to advance understanding of conditions that particularly impact them. One ongoing example is the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/genetic-insights-into-colorectal-cancer-black-community/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic insights into colorectal cancer in the Black community</a> study. Launched in collaboration with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, the study aims to shed light on the genetics of colorectal cancer, which Black and African Americans are <a href="https://colorectalcancer.org/basics/facts-and-statistics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">about 15% more likely to develop and 35% more likely to die</a> from compared to non-Hispanic white Americans. This study is one of many critical steps toward closing the health disparity gap. This data ensures that the next generation of treatments and preventative care is designed with <em>all</em> populations in mind.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-power-of-the-research-model">The Power of the Research Model</h2>



<p>This is the heart of the 23andMe Research Institute: a cycle of participation and discovery. Members contribute their data and their time to research. That research leads to new scientific insights. And those insights are then returned, through new reports, features, knowledge, and publications to the very people who made the discoveries possible.&nbsp;</p>



<p>If members choose to contribute to research, they aren&#8217;t just a participant; they are a collaborator. Their contribution fuels a cycle that makes the world’s largest genetic database of individuals with African ancestry even more representative and more useful for everyone.</p>



<div style="float: center; text-align: justified; width: 700px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Author</h4>
<p><strong>Alisa Lehman</strong>, Ph.D. — Sr. Manager, Product Science
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Alisa Lehman has been working at 23andMe since 2015 creating scientifically accurate, consumer-friendly genetic reports on ancestry and health topics. Dr. Lehman holds a B.S. in Biology from MIT, and a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Stanford University.</p>
</div>


The Power of Representation in Genetic Research


<p><em>By Alisa Lehman, Ph.D.</em></p>



<p>Fear and anxiety are part of a threat-response system that is essential for survival. But for up to one in three people this system can become dysregulated, leading to anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and phobias.</p>



<p>Researchers have known these conditions have a genetic component and can run in families, but the exact genetic underpinnings have been hard to identify. Now, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-025-02485-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a new study</a>, led by researchers from the Anxiety Disorders Working Group of the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium (PGC-ANX), has identified dozens of new genetic variants linked to anxiety disorders, and data from millions of consented 23andMe research participants was used to confirm their findings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-hunt-for-anxiety-associated-genetic-variants">The Hunt for Anxiety-Associated Genetic Variants</h2>



<p>To find the genetic variants involved in complex traits like anxiety disorders, scientists need a lot of study participants. To get this large group, the researchers combined data from 36 different studies of people from Europe, the United States, and Australia. In total they had 122,225 people diagnosed with an anxiety disorder and 729,960 unaffected controls.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Then the researchers performed a genome-wide association meta-analysis, which scans the entire genome looking for genetic variants that are more common in people with anxiety disorders. By comparing the genomes of those with anxiety disorders to those without, the team identified 58 significant genetic variants associated with anxiety disorders.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-confirmation-the-critical-role-of-replication">Confirmation: The Critical Role of Replication</h2>



<p>Finding genetic variants associated with anxiety disorders is just the first step. To be confident it&#8217;s a <em>real</em> association and not a statistical fluke, results must be replicated in a completely independent group of people.</p>



<p>This is where the <a href="https://www.23andmeresearchinstitute.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe Research Institute</a> came in. The researchers tested their 58 variants in a massive cohort of consented 23andMe research participants, which included 1,175,012 participants who self-reported having anxiety and 1,956,379 participants who reported they did not.</p>



<p>Of the 55 variants they could test, all showed the same direction effect as in the discovery study, and 51 were significantly replicated. This gives researchers high confidence that these genetic variants are genuinely associated with anxiety in this population.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-critical-reminder-about-ancestry-groups-and-diversity">A Critical Reminder About Ancestry Groups and Diversity</h2>



<p>The study&#8217;s next step is an important lesson for the future of genetic research. The team attempted to replicate their findings using data from over 30,000 African American participants in the Million Veteran Program.</p>



<p>The result? Of the 53 variants tested in this cohort, only 27 (about 51%) showed the same effect, a rate no better than random chance.</p>



<p>This is not a flaw in the study; it is a crucial finding. It demonstrates that genetic discoveries made in one group (in this case, people of European descent) do not always reliably apply to other groups. This underscores the urgent need for diverse populations to participate in future genetic studies to ensure that the scientific and medical benefits of this research can be shared by everyone.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-do-these-genes-do">What Do These Genes Do?</h2>



<p>Identifying the 58 genetic variants and replicating the finding was just the first step. Researchers also wanted to know what these variants do. Functional analysis provided a major clue.</p>



<p>The variants were found to be active in all major brain regions. More specifically, the results highlighted GABAergic signaling as a potential biological mechanism underlying anxiety disorders. GABA is the brain&#8217;s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning it is a chemical messenger that calms down brain activity.</p>



<p>This is particularly exciting because many current anti-anxiety medications (like benzodiazepines) work by targeting this exact system. And there are also other genes in the GABAergic signaling pathway that could be good targets for future drugs to treat anxiety disorders.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="481" height="208" src="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/anxiety-Img.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34814" style="width:230px;height:auto" srcset="/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/anxiety-Img.png 481w, /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/anxiety-Img-300x130.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 481px) 100vw, 481px" /></figure>



<p>This study represents a major leap in our understanding of the genetic basis of anxiety. These 58 variants provide a foundational genetic basis that can guide scientists in future investigations into the biological pathways that lead to anxiety, with the ultimate hope of developing new and better treatments.</p>



<p><em>Learn more about 23andMe Research <a href="https://www.23andme.com/research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. Research participants provided informed consent and volunteered to participate in the research online, under a protocol approved by the external, independent review board AAHRPP-accredited <a href="https://www.versiticlinicaltrials.org/salusirb" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Salus IRB</a>.</em></p>



<div style="float: center; text-align: justified; width: 700px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px;">
<h4>About the Author</h4>
<p><strong>Alisa Lehman</strong>, Ph.D. — Sr. Manager, Product Science
</p>
<p> 
Dr. Alisa Lehman has been working at 23andMe since 2015 creating scientifically accurate, consumer-friendly genetic reports on ancestry and health topics. Dr. Lehman holds a B.S. in Biology from MIT, and a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Stanford University.</p>
</div>


Major New Finding on Genetics and Anxiety


<p><em>Note this post has been updated since it was first published in January 2025</em></p>



<p>When it comes to longevity, does it matter more whether you have &#8220;good genes&#8221; or &#8220;good habits?&#8221; While the factors that influence how long we live are complex and varied, the combination of the genetics you&#8217;re born with and the choices you make play a key role in your overall lifespan.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-who-lives-longer">Who lives longer?</h2>



<p>It’s no surprise that people who live longer often avoid or <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39212787/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">delay major age-related diseases</a>. To increase your chances of adding more healthy years, focus on these <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38065710/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">eight key healthy behaviors</a>:</p>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Participating in physical activity</li>



<li>Getting restorative sleep</li>



<li>Eating a balanced diet</li>



<li>Managing stress</li>



<li>Maintaining strong social connections&nbsp;</li>



<li>Avoiding smoking</li>



<li>Limiting alcohol consumption&nbsp;</li>



<li>Avoiding opioid use&nbsp;</li>
</ol>



<p>These behaviors can help delay and prevent disease, and also contribute to overall well-being.&nbsp;</p>



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



<p>Not surprisingly, your genes play an important role in longevity. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41610249/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Some estimates</a> are that up to around 50% of lifespan can be attributed to genetics (in particular when you exclude &#8220;extrinsic&#8221; causes of death, such as accidents or infections). Avoiding age-related diseases is a key factor in longevity, so genetic variants that protect against disease (or at least don&#8217;t increase your risk) are often associated with longer lifespan. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-apoe-in-longevity">The role of APOE in longevity</h3>



<p>One of the most clear and consistent genetic links with longevity is in the <em>APOE</em> gene. While the well known <em>e</em>4 variant increases the risk for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30060062/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">late-onset Alzheimer&#8217;s disease</a>, the <em>e</em>2 variant of this gene is <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30060062/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">associated with a longer lifespan</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-other-longevity-genes">Other longevity genes</h3>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31413261/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Several</a> <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30642433/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">studies</a> have found other genes connected to longevity, including the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18765803/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FOXO3 gene</a>, which is often seen in studies of people who live very long lives. However, many of these studies were done with small groups or focused only on people of European ancestry. It&#8217;s still unclear how genetics could be used to directly predict who might live longer. While predicting exact lifespan is complex, understanding your genetics can help you take proactive steps toward a healthier life.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-combining-genetics-and-lifestyle">Combining genetics and lifestyle</h2>



<p>While genetics can influence your predisposition to certain diseases, combining genetic and lifestyle information can provide a fuller picture of disease risk. It can also help motivate and focus your efforts to prevent those diseases.&nbsp;</p>



<p>For example, in the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/stay-on-track-with-23andme-health-tracks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium Health Tracks</a><sup>SM</sup> feature, you can see how a healthy lifestyle can reduce your chances of developing a health condition even if you have an increased genetic predisposition for that condition.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-key-takeaways-on-longevity">Key takeaways on longevity</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>While having &#8220;good genes&#8221; may give you some advantages, the<strong> healthy habits</strong> you adopt play a significant role in determining how long and how well you live.</li>



<li>Understanding your <strong>genetic predispositions</strong> can help you take proactive steps to prevent disease, and that&#8217;s the key to living more healthy years.</li>
</ul>



<p><em>*The 23andMe PGS test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva to report and interpret 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 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.</em></p>



<p><em>The Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease genetic health risk report is indicated for reporting of the e4 variant in the APOE gene. It describes if a person has a variant associated with an increased risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The e4 variant included in this report is found and has been studied in many ethnicities. Detailed risk estimates have been studied the most in people of European descent.</em></p>


How genetics and lifestyle shape longevity

A New Era of Discovery: Looking Ahead to the Future of Genetics


<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="/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Blog-Logo-e1521071249823.jpg 600w, /wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Blog-Logo-e1521071249823-300x167.jpg 300w, /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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