
<p>In the latest update to 23andMe’s Ancestry Composition report, we’ve added finer detail for customers with South Asian ancestry, allowing them to trace their family connections back to 44 genetic groups corresponding to regions within India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and Afghanistan.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="724" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-1024x724.png" alt="Image showing the genetic groups in South Asia included in the 23andMe update" class="wp-image-33660" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-1024x724.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-300x212.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-768x543.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-880x622.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/south_asia_country_2-1180x834.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>The update affects the majority of customers with South Asian ancestry, and over one percent of all customers who tested on our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version">latest genotyping chip</a>.</p>



<p>South Asia is the most populous region in the world and also very diverse, home to several hundred languages and various different religious and cultural practices. Now, in addition to <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/central-and-south-asia">six Ancestry Composition populations</a> in South Asia, customers can see if they are connected via shared ancestors to some of the diverse groups in the region.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ancestry-composition-update">Ancestry Composition Update</h2>



<p>23andMe’s Ancestry Composition report is a living analysis that improves as we add new reference data. Underlying our Ancestry reports are powerful algorithms and analytical tools developed by 23andMe population geneticists and engineers to offer our customers more insights into their ancestral origins.</p>



<p>Recently, we’ve updated results for people with connections to Greece and the Balkans, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/are-you-genetically-connected-to-early-colonial-americans">early colonial Americans</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-23andme-update-connects-many-african-american-customers-to-southern-roots">African Americans</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-groups-for-japan-and-scandinavia">Japan, and Scandinavia</a> for instance.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-find-out-more">Find out more</h2>



<p>If you are a 23andMe customer with the <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version">latest genotyping chip</a>, V5, you see your Ancestry Composition in your report.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="876" height="491" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card.png" alt="Image of the 23andMe screen to view your ancestry report" class="wp-image-33661" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card.png 876w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card-300x168.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ancestry-report-card-768x430.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 876px) 100vw, 876px" /></figure>



<p>Curious if you’re connected? Discover 23andMe’s<a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">&nbsp; Ancestry Service and more</a>.</p>



<p>Below are the lists of Genetic Groups 23andMe has added as part of this update&nbsp;</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Bengal Basin</li>



<li>Central Deccan Plateau</li>



<li>Central Himalayan Foothills</li>



<li>Chettinad</li>



<li>Coromandel Coast</li>



<li>Doaba</li>



<li>Ganges-Yamuna Doab</li>



<li>Goa and Kanara</li>



<li>Jhelum and Chenab River Basins</li>



<li>Karnataka Plateau and Andhra Plains</li>



<li>Kashmir</li>



<li>Kathiawar Peninsula</li>



<li>Kerala Plains</li>



<li>Khyber Pass</li>



<li>Konkan Coast</li>



<li>Krishna and Godavari Deltas</li>



<li>Kutch Peninsula</li>



<li>Lower Indus River Valley</li>



<li>Lower Narmada River Basin&nbsp;</li>



<li>Lower Tapti River Basin</li>



<li>Majha</li>



<li>Malabar Coast</li>



<li>Malwa Plains</li>



<li>North Gujarat Plains</li>



<li>North Sahyadri</li>



<li>Northeast Sri Lankan Coast</li>



<li>Northern Deccan Plateau and Middle Ganga Plain</li>



<li>Northern Kerala Backwaters</li>



<li>Northern Tamilnad Plains</li>



<li>Parsis in Western India</li>



<li>Punjab Plains</li>



<li>Rachna Doab</li>



<li>Sindh Sagar Doab&nbsp;</li>



<li>South Gujarat Plains</li>



<li>Southern Tamilnad Plains</li>



<li>Southwestern Coastal Plains</li>



<li>Southwestern Sri Lanka</li>



<li>Surma-Meghna River Basin</li>



<li>Tamilnad Uplands</li>



<li>Telengana Plateau</li>



<li>Tulu Nadu</li>



<li>Upper Kaveri River Basin</li>



<li>Upper Krishna and Tungabhadra Rivers</li>



<li>Western Himalayan Foothills</li>
</ul>


23andMe Blog

23andMe Blog Team

23andMe Adds More Detail for South Asian Ancestry


<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-new-moon-on-january-29th-ushers-in-the-chinese-new-year-symbolizing-the-end-of-winter-and-the-arrival-of-spring-in-china-to-celebrate-we-have-added-56-new-individuals-from-three-recent-studies-of-ancient-china-to-the-historical-matches-tm-feature-a-23andme-premium-membership-feature">The New Moon on January 29th ushers in the Chinese New Year, symbolizing the end of winter and the arrival of spring in China. To celebrate, we have added 56 new individuals from three recent studies of ancient China to the Historical Matches<sup>TM</sup> feature, a <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+ Premium<sup><a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">® </a></sup>  membership </a>feature. </h5>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-genomic-transformations-in-shandong-province-throughout-time"><strong>Genomic Transformations in Shandong Province Throughout Time</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-1024x576.png" alt="Photograph of city from Shandong Dynasty" class="wp-image-33655" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-768x432.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-880x495.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong-1180x664.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shandong.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Shandong Dynasty city</figcaption></figure>



<p>Two of the newly added studies focus on the ancient inhabitants of Shandong Province, located in the easternmost reaches of the Yellow River Basin. This region is considered a cradle of ancient Chinese civilization, partly due to its role in the independent domestication of millet during the Neolithic Houli Period (circa 6500 – 5500 BCE). Around 4,000 years ago, Shandong transitioned into its dynastic era with the establishment of the legendary Xia dynasty (circa 2070 – 1600 BCE).</p>



<p>In 2024, researchers published two genetic studies on the ancient inhabitants of Shandong Province to better understand the demographic shifts in the region over the past 6,000 years. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39146937/">The first study</a> analyzed the genomes of 69 individuals who lived in the region between the Late Neolithic period (circa 5,500 BCE) and the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE). <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39009303/">The second study</a> focused on 21 individuals who lived in Shandong between the Warring States Period (475 – 221 BCE) and the Jin (1115 – 1234 CE) and Yuan (1271 – 1368 CE) Dynasties.<br><br>These studies revealed that during the Dawenkou period (c. 4300 – 2500 BCE), populations related to Yellow River farmers from Central China (who themselves had some Southern Chinese-related ancestry) migrated to Shandong and intermingled with local groups. Later, during the Shang (c. 1600 – 1046 BCE) and Zhou (c. 1046 – 256 BCE) Dynasties, the region experienced an additional influx of ancestry from populations from the Central Plains. By the Han Dynasty, the ancestry of Shandong&#8217;s inhabitants began to resemble that of the present-day inhabitants of the region.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-ancient-city-of-chang-an-during-the-tang-dynasty"><strong>The Ancient City of Chang’an During the Tang Dynasty</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-1024x576.png" alt="Photo of the ancient city of Changan from the Tang Dynasty." class="wp-image-33654" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-768x432.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-880x495.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan-1180x664.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/tang_dynasty_changan.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Ancient city of Changan from the Tang dynasty</figcaption></figure>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39567925/">The third study</a> we are featuring this month investigates the genetic impact of long distance trade along the Silk Road on the inhabitants of the ancient city of Chang’an (now known as Xi’an). Located at the eastern end of the Silk Road, Chang’an was one of the most influential cities in ancient China’s history. As the capital of several prominent dynasties, including the Qin (221 – 206 BCE), Western Han (206 BCE – 9 CE), and Tang (618 – 907 CE) Dynasties, Chang’an served as a political and cultural hub. Its key position at the end of the Silk Road meant that Chang’an played a central role in facilitating trade and the exchange of ideas between China, Central Asia, the Middle East and Europe. During the Tang dynasty, the city flourished, reaching a population of over one million at its peak</p>



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



<p>You can learn more about these chapters in ancient China’s history and discover whether you share distant genetic connections with the newly added historical individuals from ancient China—or with hundreds of other historical individuals—through the Historical Matches<sup>TM</sup> feature, available with our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+® Premium membership</a>.</p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to Ancient China


<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-this-month-a-team-of-researchers-from-trinity-college-dublin-and-bournemouth-university-published-a-new-study-in-the-journal-nature-that-upends-our-understanding-of-women-s-roles-in-ancient-celtic-society-in-britain">This month, a team of researchers from Trinity College Dublin and Bournemouth University published <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39814899/">a new study in the journal Nature</a> that upends our understanding of women’s roles in ancient Celtic society in Britain.</h5>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Missing burials in Iron Age Britain</h2>



<p>Prior to the publication of this study, relatively little was known about the social structure of Iron Age populations in Britain due to the scarcity of human skeletal remains from this period. Researchers are uncertain why so few burials have survived from this period, but it is possible that it is related to how ancient Britons treated the dead. They may have placed burials in environments like bogs or wetlands, where bones are less likely to preserve, or practiced cremation, leaving limited remains behind.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This shortage of skeletal evidence has made it challenging to answer important questions about Iron Age social organization, such as how people moved within society after marriage. However this changed when archaeologists discovered a rare, well-preserved Iron Age cemetery in Dorset in southern England, where members of a tribe known as the Durotriges—a name preserved in the writings of Ptolemy, the 2<sup>nd</sup> century Greek geographer and astronomer—were buried.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="500" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Coins-Celtic-HM-1024x500.png" alt="Photograph of front and back of coin from the Durotriges, circa 60 BC" class="wp-image-33651" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Coins-Celtic-HM-1024x500.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Coins-Celtic-HM-300x146.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Coins-Celtic-HM-768x375.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Coins-Celtic-HM-880x429.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Coins-Celtic-HM-1180x576.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Coin from the Durotriges, circa 60 BC</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Discovering a matrilocal society</h2>



<p>The research team sequenced the genomes of 55 individuals who were buried in this ancient cemetery—in addition to two other Durotrigian women who were buried nearby—in order to investigate the family structure of Celtic populations in southern Britain during the Late Iron Age.&nbsp;</p>



<p>They discovered that most of the people buried in the cemetery descended from a single maternal lineage that spanned generations. This discovery suggests that the society practiced matrilocality—where men moved to live with their wives&#8217; families. In human history, matrilocality is far less common than patrilocality, where women join their husbands’ families. Remarkably, this study uncovered the earliest known case of matrilocality among ancient Europeans.</p>



<p>When the researchers expanded their analysis to other ancient European sites with available ancient DNA, they found that similar patterns of matrilocality were observed only in other Celtic populations in Britain. This suggests that matrilocality may have been a distinctive feature of Iron Age Britons, setting them apart from other ancient European societies.</p>



<p>These findings align with Roman accounts of the unique and influential roles women held in Celtic Britain. For instance, Julius Caesar wrote about British women taking multiple husbands, while historical records highlight two prominent female leaders: Cartimandua, the warrior queen of the Brigantes, and Boudica of the Iceni, who led a revolt against Roman rule.</p>



<p>While matrilocal societies are not necessarily matriarchal (where women hold higher social status than men), such practices are more likely to occur in matrilocal systems than in patrilocal ones.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Learn More</h2>



<p>Interested in learning whether you share a genetic connection to this lineage of Celtic women? Thanks to Historical Matches<sup>SM</sup> our <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+® Premium membership</a> feature, you can find out if you share a genetic connection with the individuals whose DNA was sequenced as part of this study.</p>


Photograph of Dorset, England showing green hillsides at sunset.

New Historical Matches could connect you a lineage of Iron Age Celtic Women in Britain


<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-understanding-osteoporosis-a-common-and-manageable-condition">Understanding osteoporosis: a common and manageable condition</h2>



<p>This week, 23andMe released a new report on <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/prs.osteoporosis/">osteoporosis</a> for 23andMe+ Premium members.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Osteoporosis is a condition where bone density becomes too low, making bones more fragile and more likely to break or fracture. According to the <a href="https://www.osteoporosis.foundation/facts-statistics/key-statistic-for-north-america">International Osteoporosis Foundation</a>, about <strong>half of females and up to a quarter of males</strong> in the U.S. will break a bone due to low bone density.</p>



<p>Osteoporosis is <a href="https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/osteoporosis">sometimes called a “silent disease”</a> because it usually has no symptoms until people break a bone. These breaks – most commonly in the spine, hip, or wrist – can be caused by minor falls, normal activities like bending or lifting, or even spontaneously. Fortunately, osteoporosis is highly actionable if diagnosed early. There are medications that can slow bone loss, and strategies that can help prevent falls.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="306" height="126" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PRS-Hero.jpg" alt="icons of broken bone" class="wp-image-33645" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PRS-Hero.jpg 306w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/PRS-Hero-300x124.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 306px) 100vw, 306px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-dna-in-bone-health">The role of DNA in bone health</h2>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35478046/">According to published data</a>, it&#8217;s estimated that genetics explains ~60-80% of the variability in bone density. Knowing about one&#8217;s genetic likelihood of developing osteoporosis can prompt early conversations with healthcare providers to determine if screening might be appropriate. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="416" height="234" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ways-to-Take-Action.png" alt="" class="wp-image-33646" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ways-to-Take-Action.png 416w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Ways-to-Take-Action-300x169.png 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 416px) 100vw, 416px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-ways-to-take-action">Ways to take action</h3>



<p>It can also help to implement strategies to avoid falls and to take preventative measures such as:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li> making exercise (especially weight-bearing exercise) part of your daily routine</li>



<li>eating a healthy diet with plenty of vitamin D and calcium</li>



<li>maintaining a healthy weight (being underweight is associated with increased risk) </li>



<li>avoiding alcohol and smoking.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-about-the-23andme-osteoporosis-report">About the 23andMe Osteoporosis report</h2>



<p>23andMe+ Premium’s new Osteoporosis report* estimates one’s genetic likelihood of osteoporosis using a statistical model known as a polygenic risk score (PRS). The report uses an individual’s genetic results at many genetic markers, along with their genetic ancestry and birth sex, to estimate the likelihood of developing osteoporosis. The Osteoporosis report was developed by 23andMe scientists and clinical experts using data from 23andMe’s customers who consented to participate in research.</p>



<p>A published<a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/23_25-PRSMethodology.pdf"> white paper </a>fully details the science and methodology behind 23andMe’s PRS technology. While the genetic variants included in the report play a role, the report does not account for all factors that could impact a person’s likelihood of developing osteoporosis.</p>



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



<p><br>23andMe+ Premium members can view this with their other Health Predisposition reports.</p>



<p>Current 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service customers on the current genotyping chip can receive this and 35+ other reports by joining a 23andMe+ Premium membership within their account.</p>



<p>Not a <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+ Premium member</a> yet? Learn more about what <a href="https://www.23andme.com/compare-dna-tests/">23andMe has to offer here</a>.</p>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<p><strong><em>NOTE: </em></strong><em>Within this blog post and the Osteoporosis report, we use the word “male” to refer to people whose birth sex is male and “female” to refer to people whose birth sex is female. However, we recognize that being categorized by birth sex may be an uncomfortable experience for some people, and we do not mean to delegitimize anyone’s gender identity. Learn more about why we made this decision in this </em><a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010964373-How-23andMe-Uses-Your-Genetic-Sex-Birth-Sex-and-Gender"><em>help article</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p><em>* The 23andMe Osteoporosis PRS report is based on a genetic model that includes data and insights from 23andMe consented research participants and incorporates more than 22,000 genetic variants to provide information on the likelihood of developing osteoporosis. 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 Osteoporosis 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></p>


A New Report on Osteoporosis


<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-novel-insights-from-a-landmark-study-using-genomic-dataset-with-unprecedented-diversity"><em>Novel insights from a landmark study using genomic dataset with unprecedented diversity</em></h6>



<p>Did you know that your genetic makeup could hold important clues about your risk for depression? A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39814019/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">groundbreaking new study</a>, led by the University of Edinburgh and King’s College London, has analyzed the genomes of over <strong>five million people across 29 countries</strong>, including a pool of 23andMe research participants who consented to participate in studies like this. </p>



<p>Using this collaborative approach, the study uncovered nearly 300 previously unknown genetic links to depression. Crucially, it included participants from African, East Asian, Hispanic, and South Asian backgrounds, marking a significant departure from previous studies that overwhelmingly focused on individuals of European descent.</p>



<p>This diversity wasn’t just a milestone for representation; it was key to the study’s success. Among the newly discovered genetic variants, 100 were identified solely because of the inclusion of these underrepresented populations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In total, researchers found nearly 700 genetic variations linked to depression, implicating 308 specific genes. Many of these genes are associated with neurons in brain regions that regulate emotion, offering fresh insights into depression’s biological underpinnings.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Depression: A Closer Look at Genetics</h2>



<p>As winter drags on, the dark days and cold temperatures are a drain on everyone&#8217;s mood. For people predisposed to depression, though, it can mean more than that. While two people might go through the same long, dark winter, one person might feel pretty much normal, while the other might experience it as a trigger for the changes to mood, cognition, energy, sleep, appetite and more that define depression.&nbsp;</p>



<p>What makes some people prone to depression, and not others? <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/depression/">Depression impacts 1 in 5 people in the U.S. in their lifetimes</a>, making it one of the most common mental illnesses. But scientists are still learning more about what contributes to an individual&#8217;s risk for depression.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It&#8217;s already known that the risk is increased by going through stressful life experiences like childhood adversity, discrimination, or serious health problems. And we’ve long known from family studies that depression can run in families, hinting at a genetic component.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Pinpointing the exact genetic factors at play has been challenging. Researchers use genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to uncover genetic variants — small differences in DNA — that might influence the likelihood of experiencing depression. However, these studies require enormous datasets to find statistically significant patterns.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Diversity Drives Breakthroughs in Depression Research</h2>



<p>The results of this new study from the University of Edinburgh and Kings College London stand out for the diversity of the data set and have implications for reducing ethnic disparity in future advances in genomic medicine. The more we know about the genetics of depression in people of a given ancestry, the better our ability to predict which individuals are most likely to experience depression in that group.</p>



<p>The study’s findings also open up exciting avenues for treatment. Researchers identified genes targeted by existing antidepressant medications and flagged new ones that could lead to novel therapies. Intriguingly, the results highlighted two drugs — pregabalin, used for chronic pain, and modafinil, used for narcolepsy — as potential candidates for repurposing to treat depression. While more research is needed, these findings could pave the way for more effective treatments in the future.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">23andMe’s role in advancing genomic research</h2>



<p>23andMe&#8217;s diverse group of research participants has enabled us to conduct or contribute to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/publications/">more than 250</a> studies on a wide range of conditions, including collaborations like this study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>It&#8217;s also made it possible for us to offer cutting-edge genetic reports on predispositions to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and more. These reports, based on methodology called polygenic scores or PRS, let individuals understand what genome-wide association study findings mean for themselves. Knowing that you have an increased likelihood of depression or another condition based on genetics can help individuals identify potential symptoms early and seek support when needed. And for many, understanding the genetic component of their condition can help reduce feelings of self-blame and stigma.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Our <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-new-depression-report">Depression PRS report, part of 23andMe Premium</a>, is available to people from six major ancestry groups, again thanks to our diverse research participants that enabled us to scientifically validate the model in all these ancestries.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-be-a-part-of-depression-genomics-research"><strong>How to be a part of depression genomics research</strong></h2>



<p>This study — made possible by the contributions of 23andMe research participants — marks a significant step forward in understanding the genetics of depression, but there&#8217;s still more to do. If you&#8217;re a 23andMe customer and you&#8217;re interested in contributing to more research studies like this one, you can learn more <a href="https://www.23andme.com/research/">here</a> about how to get involved.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-nbsp-key-takeaways">&nbsp;<strong>Key Takeaways</strong></h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Depression affects millions, but this groundbreaking study uncovers nearly <strong>700 genetic links</strong> to the condition, including discoveries made possible by the inclusion of <strong>diverse populations</strong>.</li>



<li>The findings offer insights into the biological underpinnings of depression and potential new treatment options.</li>



<li>23andMe’s Depression PRS report empowers individuals to understand their genetic likelihood and take more control of their mental health journey.</li>
</ul>



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



<p><a href="https://www.apa.org/topics/depression" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">American Psychological Association. &#8220;Depression.&#8221; Retrieved March 8, 2023, from https://www.apa.org/topics/depression.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://www.cdc.gov/learnmorefeelbetter/programs/depression.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. &#8220;Managing Depression.&#8221; Retrieved March 17, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/learnmorefeelbetter/programs/depression.htm.</a></p>



<p><a href="https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Depression" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">National Alliance on Mental Illness. &#8220;Depression.&#8221; Retrieved March 8, 2023, from https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/Depression.</a></p>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31006406" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Øverland S et al. (2019). &#8220;Seasonality and symptoms of depression: A systematic review of the literature.&#8221; Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci. 29:e31.</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24721040/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarris 2014. &#8220;Lifestyle medicine for depression.&#8221; BMC Psychiatry. 2014 Apr 10;14:107.</a> https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24721040/</p>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29450462/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hasin DS et al. (2018). &#8220;Epidemiology of Adult DSM-5 Major Depressive Disorder and Its Specifiers in the United States.&#8221; JAMA Psychiatry. 75(4):336-346.</a> https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29450462/</p>


Landmark study breaks new ground in depression genetics research


<p>Alzheimer&#8217;s disease begins decades before symptoms appear. This means that there are opportunities for early prediction of who is at risk of developing Alzheimer&#8217;s, early detection of the developing disease, and for early intervention to slow the disease and delay the onset of dementia.&nbsp;<br>23andMe recently teamed up with <a href="https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/">Us Against Alzheimer&#8217;s</a> to help sponsor a <a href="https://www.usagainstalzheimers.org/risk-reduction-and-dementia">webinar for healthcare professionals on reducing risk for dementia</a>. While this was intended for healthcare professionals, a lot of the information is helpful for anyone interested in Alzheimer&#8217;s disease and dementia prevention.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-early-prediction-detection-and-intervention-can-help-fight-alzheimer-s">How Early Prediction, Detection, and Intervention Can Help Fight Alzheimer’s</h2>



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<p> 

<em>While 23andMe does offer APOE e4 testing*, we believe that deciding whether or not you want to learn about genetic information that relates to health risks is a personal choice. 23andMe customers have the option to opt-in or opt-out of receiving health information, and have the further option of opting in or out of the Late-Onset Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease Report specifically. If you’re a 23andMe customer and you do not opt in to seeing this information you will not see a Late-Onset Alzheimer&#8217;s Disease Report in your account. You can change your decision at any time in your account settings.</p>

<p>We encourage everyone to think carefully about whether to view their Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease Report—ultimately, it’s up to the individual to decide. While many 23andMe customers want this information and find it helpful in their health journey, we know that not everyone feels this way. We provide access to this information for those who want it, but also provide mechanisms to ensure those who do not want this information do not have to see it.</em></p>

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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-early-prediction-genetics-and-family-history">Early Prediction: Genetics and Family History</h3>



<p>Your family history and genetic testing can play a critical role in assessing your Alzheimer&#8217;s risk.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Family history: </strong>knowing your family history with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can provide an important signal of Alzheimer’s disease risk.</li>



<li><strong>APOE e4 genetic variant: </strong>This variant in the APOE gene is the most impactful common genetic risk factor for <a href="https://www.23andme.com/topics/health-predispositions/late-onset-alzheimers/">late-onset Alzheimer’s disease</a>. There are also many other genes that can contribute to your risk of developing Alzheimer&#8217;s.</li>



<li><strong>Genetic testing:</strong> Genetic testing can help you find out whether you carry a variant linked to Alzheimer&#8217;s disease.</li>
</ul>



<p><em>The </em><a href="https://www.23andme.com/test-info/genetic-health/"><em>23andMe Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease Genetic Health Risk report</em></a><em> tests for the APOE e4 variant for customers who opt-in to this report.</em></p>



<p class="has-small-font-size"><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/living-with-alzheimers-disease"><strong><em>Read about a mother’s story with genetic testing for Alzheimer’s Disease</em></strong></a></p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Early detection: tools and tests</h3>



<p>Early detection evaluations can identify if the biological signals of Alzheimer’s disease are developing.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Brain imaging:</strong> Tools like PET scans and MRIs can detect physical changes in the brain.</li>



<li><strong>Blood Tests:</strong> Biomarkers, such as amyloid beta or phosphorylated tau, can signal the disease may be present.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>



<li><strong>Cognitive Assessments: </strong>Digital tools like tablet- or smartphone-based tests can monitor for early signs of cognitive decline.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Early Intervention: Slowing Progression</h3>



<p>There’s encouraging progress in treating Alzheimer’s disease in the early-stages. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37459141/">Newly</a><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36449413/"> approved</a> drugs can slow cognitive decline by 25–30% in early-stage patients. Ongoing research and drug development continue to explore methods to delay progression in presymptomatic stages and early stages from developing into later, symptomatic stages.</p>



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<p class="has-text-align-center"><a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/"><em>Learn more about our Health + Ancestry Service</em></a></p>
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<p>Beyond early prediction, detection, and interventions—there&#8217;s also prevention. What can we all do to reduce our risk and help prevent Alzheimer&#8217;s from developing?</p>



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<p><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em>“We need to carry out a process of early prediction using family history and genetics, early detection to see when that pathology is first brewing so we can hit it before the organ degenerates&#8221; – Dr. Rudolph Tanzi, Risk Reduction and Dementia; A Brain Health Academy seminar</em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Alzheimer’s Prevention through lifestyle changes</h2>



<p>What can you do today that will help lower your risk for Alzheimer&#8217;s disease? A <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/lifestyle-changes-may-help-reduce-for-risk-alzheimers-disease">healthy lifestyle can not only help lower your chances of developing Alzheimer&#8217;s disease</a>, but can also help improve cognitive function for those with early Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. What specifically helps lower risk?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



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<p><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em><em>&#8220;Sleep more, relax more, socialize more, move more, learn more, eat healthier&#8221;  – Dr. Rudolph Tanzi, Risk Reduction and Dementia; A Brain Health Academy seminar</em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></em></p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading has-text-align-left has-large-font-size" id="h-the-shield-plan-for-brain-health">The SHIELD Plan for Brain Health</h3>



<p class="has-small-font-size">Dr. Rudolph Tanzi, Director of the Massachusetts General Hospital McCance Center for Brain Health, developed the SHIELD Plan, a simple guide to protecting your brain health:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>S</strong><strong>leep</strong> &#8211; Aim for 7-8 hours each night.  Deep sleep helps clear plaque and other debris from the brain. Prioritize good sleep habits now—don’t wait until next year!</li>



<li><strong>H</strong><strong>andle stress</strong> &#8211; Manage anxiety and depression in a plan that works for you—periodic vacations, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, or seeking help from a certified stress management specialist may all help. Anxiety and depression have both been shown to increase the risk for, and progression of, dementia.</li>



<li><strong>I</strong><strong>nteractions with others </strong>&#8211; A rich social life may slow cognitive aging and may protect against Alzheimer&#8217;s disease. Find ways to continue to connect with others and combat feelings of loneliness.</li>



<li><strong>E</strong><strong>xercise </strong>&#8211; Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week—or, at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, 5 days per week. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and can trigger the birth of new nerve cells in certain parts of the brain.</li>



<li><strong>L</strong><strong>earn new things </strong>&#8211; Consistent engagement with learning throughout life is associated with improved cognitive function. Learning a new language, learning to play an instrument, completing puzzles, playing interactive games, or taking adult education classes may all help lifelong learning. </li>



<li><strong>D</strong><strong>iet </strong>&#8211; A Mediterranean diet is not just good for your heart, it&#8217;s also good for your brain. Focus on lower glycemic carbohydrates (like in nuts, fruits, and beans), healthy fats, leafy vegetables, and lean proteins.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">You are empowered</h2>



<p>It’s never too late to make changes. Every step we take to care for our brain, no matter how small, may contribute to our long-term cognitive health. Prevention starts with awareness and action—because small, consistent changes in our daily habits can make a meaningful difference in brain health over time. Together, by prioritizing our brain health, we can shift the tide against Alzheimer’s disease, one lifestyle choice at a time.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Key Takeaways</h2>



<p>The science is clear: while we can’t control all the factors that contribute to Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, we <em>can</em> make meaningful choices today that may help protect our brains for years to come. Whether or not you choose to explore your genetic risk, the lifestyle interventions outlined in Dr. Tanzi’s SHIELD Plan—prioritizing good sleep, managing stress, staying socially connected, moving your body, feeding your mind, and eating for brain health—are each powerful tools to reduce your risk of dementia.</p>



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<p><strong>Note:</strong></p>



<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>


Early Detection, Prediction, and Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease


<h5 class="wp-block-heading has-small-font-size" id="h-new-research-reveals-how-unique-blood-test-ranges-can-improve-health-insights">New research reveals how unique blood test ranges can improve health insights</h5>



<p>Did you know that your blood test results might tell a more personal story about your health than you think? <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39663453/">A recent paper in Nature</a> by Brody Foy and colleagues has uncovered fascinating insights about one of the most common medical tests—the complete blood count (CBC). The CBC measures various components of your blood like red and white blood cells, and hemoglobin.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The paper found that everyone has their own unique baseline, or “setpoint,” for their CBC values. If we look at the CBC results of two different people, their results will be much more different from each other than if we look at CBC results from the same person at two different points in time (even over 20 years). These personalized setpoints may actually be better at predicting your risk for certain diseases than relying solely on traditional reference ranges.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-role-of-genetics-in-your-blood-test-results">The Role of Genetics in Your Blood Test Results</h2>



<p>Genetics <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38649760/">may play a key role in shaping these setpoints</a>. We already know that in certain cases genetics can predispose an individual to lab results outside the standard reference ranges; an example of this is Duffy-null associated neutrophil count.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>What Is the Duffy-Null Phenotype?<br></strong>Genetic variation in the ACKR1 gene determines Duffy blood group status. People who lack the Duffy antigens on their red blood cells have what&#8217;s called the &#8220;Duffy-null&#8221; phenotype, which is associated with protection against certain types of malaria. This also leads to lower overall neutrophil count in the blood without any negative health effects. </li>



<li><strong>Why Does This Matter?</strong><strong><br></strong>Healthcare providers can sometimes see a low neutrophil count on bloodwork and order <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34180972/">unnecessary followup tests</a> that provide no benefit. These naturally low neutrophil levels can also lead to people with the Duffy-null phenotype being <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39588887/">excluded from clinical trials</a> or denied appropriate medication doses.</li>
</ul>



<p>This is just one example of how genetic factors can influence blood test results, showing the importance of understanding personalized reference ranges that reflect individual biology.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-personalized-reference-ranges-matter">Why Personalized Reference Ranges Matter</h2>



<p>When it comes to blood test results, it&#8217;s clear that what&#8217;s &#8220;healthy&#8221; can be different between individuals due to genetics and other biological and demographic factors. Having more personalized reference ranges for blood tests would allow for better understanding of a patient&#8217;s actual health status, identifying risks more accurately to improve long-term health outcomes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-potential-benefits-for-healthcare">Potential benefits for healthcare</h3>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>More Accurate Risk Prediction:</strong> Personalized setpoints could help doctors identify risks for diseases more effectively.</li>



<li><strong>Fewer Unnecessary Tests:</strong> Patients might avoid unneeded follow-ups triggered by results that are technically outside the standard range but normal for them.</li>



<li><strong>Better Treatment Decisions:</strong> Tailored reference ranges could help ensure that patients receive the correct medication doses and aren’t excluded from clinical trials due to irrelevant test results.</li>
</ul>



<p>This study underscores the potential of moving beyond generic reference ranges to embrace a more personalized approach to healthcare. By factoring in unique traits—like genetics and demographics—we can better understand what &#8220;healthy&#8221; looks like for each individual.</p>


Why Your Blood Test Results Should Be Personalized to You


<p><strong><em>This is the first in a series of posts we plan to publish in order to help raise further awareness of lung cancer. We hope to highlight the work of the 20+ lung cancer patient advocacy organizations collaborating with us on our recently launched </em></strong><a href="https://www.23andme.com/lung-cancer/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong><em>Lung Cancer Genetics Study</em></strong></a><strong><em>.&nbsp;</em></strong></p>



<p>A lung cancer diagnosis is often overwhelming, bringing with it a flood of questions — some practical, some deeply existential. From treatment options to family support, patients are often left searching for answers amid difficult news.</p>



<p>For Ilana Stromberg, a mother of five who was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2019, those questions felt all too familiar. She knew firsthand the isolation that can come with this diagnosis and the desire to connect with others who understand. So when an oncologist friend called asking if she’d talk to one of his patients, Susan Troper, Ilana immediately agreed to reach out.</p>



<p>The two women had more in common than just their diagnosis: they were close in age, each raising five children, and shared a Jewish heritage. “We talked about a lot of things, often our kids, but also about symptoms, fears, treatments, doctors…. We became friends.” But there was something deeper they also shared — a determination to change the future of lung cancer for the next generation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-urgent-need-for-lung-cancer-research"><strong>The Urgent Need for Lung Cancer Research</strong></h2>



<p>Lung cancer remains by far the number one cause of cancer death in the United States. In 2020, more people died from lung cancer than breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer combined, according to the <a href="https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/lung-cancer/about/key-statistics.html#:~:text=Lung%20cancer%20mainly%20occurs%20in,in%20early%20detection%20and%20treatment.">American Cancer Society</a>. Despite this fact, lung cancer receives only about <a href="https://lcfamerica.org/lung-cancer-research/how-grants-move-research-forward/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nine percent</a> of federal cancer research funding, and much of that research doesn’t incorporate genetics.</p>



<p>While most of us know that smoking increases one&#8217;s risk, between <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/lung-cancer/nonsmokers/index.html#:~:text=cancer%2C%20and%20asbestos.-,In%20the%20United%20States%2C%20about%2010%25%20to%2020%25%20of,2%2C900%20of%20these%20lung%20cancers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">10–20 percent</a> of people who develop lung cancers have never smoked or smoked less than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11014425/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Two-thirds</a> of these people are women, like Ilana and Susan.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Both Ilana and Susan shared concerns about the lack of options for patients and the need for more genetic research. They worried for their children, wanting to understand if genetic markers could reveal early signs of the disease. It was out of these conversations that the idea for a large-scale genetics study began to take shape.</p>



<p>Ilana’s lung cancer journey had motivated her family to start a non-profit called <a href="https://happylungsproject.org/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Happy Lungs Project</a> in 2021. The goal of The Happy Lungs Project is to advance research that leads to dependable treatments and a cure for RET-positive, non-small cell lung cancer. <a href="https://happylungsproject.org/about-ret/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RET</a> is a gene that acts as a biomarker — a sign of a specific subtype of cancer. When the RET gene is mutated, it can drive the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells, acting as the primary “driver” of cancers in people like Ilana. RET-positive lung cancer is relatively rare, accounting for about two percent of non-small cell lung cancers. There are many other genes (or biomarkers) associated with different lung cancer subtypes. For some, new treatments help slow the progression of the disease. However, scientists are still wrangling with understanding all the contributing factors in lung cancer.</p>



<p>It quickly became clear to Ilana that patient participation in research was critical for improving understanding of the disease and eventually developing new treatments. Through her work with The Happy Lungs Project, Ilana connected with leaders from other lung cancer advocacy groups, and she heard a common theme — an effort by many to create lung cancer registries, or databases containing detailed information about many people with lung cancer. Ilana recognized that a dedicated, national lung cancer registry serving all of these groups could be a game-changer for research, helping recruit patients for studies more quickly and investigating genetics along with other information about a patient’s cancer.</p>



<p>Although there were efforts in the past to create a broad lung cancer registry, there just wasn’t the means of making it happen, at least not until Susan’s involvement.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-vision-grows-from-conversation-to-collaboration"><strong>A Vision Grows: From Conversation to Collaboration</strong></h2>



<p>Susan Troper Wojcicki, who had an impressive career as a former CEO of YouTube and one of Google’s early employees, was also the sister of Anne Wojcicki, 23andMe CEO and co-founder, and Janet Wojcicki, PhD, an epidemiologist and professor of pediatrics at the University of California, San Francisco. Ilana asked Susan if she thought Anne and 23andMe would be interested in partnering on a lung cancer registry, speculating that 23andMe might already have in place the recruitment resources and privacy parameters to ensure robust enrollment and a safe and secure experience for patients.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>Excited about this possibility, Susan spoke to her sister Anne about the idea of creating a nationwide genetics study for lung cancer, one that could unite scientists, patients, and advocacy groups in a mission to understand the genetic factors behind the disease.&nbsp;</p>



<p>In early 2023, Ilana got a text from Susan saying it was a go! Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies — the family foundation of Susan and her husband, Dennis Troper — would fund a collaborative effort, and Susan’s sister Anne&#8217;s company, 23andMe, could create a lung cancer registry and genetic research study. “Just like that, it was happening,” Ilana said. “It was born out of Susan’s unbelievable resourcefulness, untamed imagination, and staggering generosity.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-building-a-national-registry-with-patients-at-the-center"><strong>Building a National Registry with Patients at the Center</strong></h2>



<p>The aim of the Lung Cancer Genetics Study is to uncover genetic insights that could enable earlier detection, more effective treatments, and potentially even prevention strategies for lung cancer. What sets the study apart is its patient-centered approach. From the outset, Ilana and Susan recognized that meaningful change requires input from those directly affected, and they wanted to make sure that patient voices guided the design and implementation of the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Marcia Horn, president and CEO of ICAN, International Cancer Advocacy Network,&nbsp; leads several organizations that focus on specific lung cancer biomarkers. She recalls talking with Ilana about a patient registry and lung cancer genetics study that not only would involve all the non-small cell lung cancer biomarker organizations, but that Susan would convene a meeting for all the relevant organizations to participate in the planning.&nbsp;</p>



<p>This collaborative spirit brought together scientists, clinicians, advocates, and caregivers from across the country. At a special summit, expert researchers and representatives from 12 lung cancer advocacy organizations met to hash out the initial vision for the study.&nbsp;</p>



<p>“Ilana and I wanted to make sure that all the major players in non-small cell lung cancer biomarker support groups were invited to this meeting,” Marcia said. It was the first time that all the biomarker patient advocate leaders had ever been in the same room at the same time. “That was very exciting, and we’ve developed closer relationships and collaborations because of that meeting.” Since then, the number of advocacy organizations supporting the study has grown to nearly two dozen, with more than 25 patients and advocates participating as advisors.</p>



<p>After months of hard work, the study <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-launches-new-genetic-study-of-lung-cancer">launched in July 2024</a> and enrolled 1,000 participants in less than six weeks, with a goal of reaching 10,000. In order to help more researchers make new discoveries, the de-identified data from the study will be made available to approved nonprofit researchers and institutions at no cost through a controlled-access database starting in the summer of 2025. De-identified data in the scientific database will include genetic data, data from surveys on participants’ lung cancer experience and, in some cases, data from medical records and tumor testing. Combining all these de-identified data types will help researchers investigate how genetics, environment, and other factors impact lung cancer risk and progression of the disease over time. The study is approved by a third-party ethics review board known as an institutional review board, or IRB.</p>



<p>According to Marcia, the Lung Cancer Genetics Study is a gift to patients, care partners, families, clinicians, and biomarker organizations everywhere.</p>



<p>“The results of the study will no doubt dramatically impact the field of lung cancer and could lead to the development of therapies that aren’t even conceived of right now,” Marcia said.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-susan-s-legacy-lives-on"><strong>Susan’s Legacy Lives On</strong></h2>



<p>Just as the Lung Cancer Genetics Study was taking off, Susan’s health declined, and she passed away in August 2024. Her legacy, however, lives on through this initiative. Her drive to create something lasting and transformative is a testament to her commitment to patients, families, and future generations.</p>



<p>Ilana reflects on the study’s creation with gratitude for the friendship that sparked a powerful movement. “She never gave up. Susan remains the ultimate force of good in our world,” Ilana said. “Susan is a daily reminder of how to live this precious and fragile life, and I feel so very blessed to have known her.”</p>



<p>Today, the Lung Cancer Genetics Study stands as a beacon of hope in lung cancer research. By involving patients, families, and the scientific community, it holds the promise of uncovering insights that could reshape the future of lung cancer care.</p>



<p>To learn more about the 23andMe study, our collaborators, and eligibility criteria, visit the <a href="https://www.23andme.com/lung-cancer/?srsltid=AfmBOoqiMpy4w1Ev3_GOVGd9Knjviy2GMioH-elCNppdR7erPvLFvgHJ">Lung Cancer Genetics Study landing page</a>.</p>



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A Legacy of Hope in the Fight Against Lung Cancer


<p>This month, 23andMe is adding eight new historical individuals from the colonial port of Campeche to Historical Matches<sup>SM</sup>, a <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a><sup>TM </sup>&nbsp;membership feature.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-unesco-world-heritage-site">UNESCO World Heritage Site</h2>



<p>The colonial port of Campeche, located in what is now the southeastern part of Mexico, was founded in 1540 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco de Montejo ‘the Younger’. The port is near the site of the old Maya village of ‘<em>Ah Kin Pech</em>,’ from which it derives its name.&nbsp;</p>



<p>After its founding, Campeche quickly grew into one of the main ports of the Spanish Empire in Mexico, and it remained one of the region’s most prominent ports until the early 19<sup>th</sup> century. In 2000, the United Nations declared the city of Campeche a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its historic town center as a key landmark of early Hispanic society in the Americas.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Within a few years of the founding of the port, an early colonial parish church was erected to serve the town’s inhabitants, including people of Spanish, Indigenous American, and African ancestry. The church continued to serve the community until 1680, when it was replaced by Campeche Cathedral, which is still in use. In 2000, Mexico&#8217;s Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia excavated the colonial-era parish church, discovering burials of 129 individuals.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-historical-individuals">Historical Individuals</h2>



<p>In 2022, <a href="https://doi.org/10.15184/aqy.2022.79" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">scientists sequenced the genomes of ten individuals</a> who lived during the 16th–17th centuries and were buried in the cemetery of the Campeche parish church. Their goal was to learn about the lives of Campeche’s inhabitants and the social divisions that may have existed in the town’s earliest years.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Of the ten individuals they sequenced, eight had entirely Indigenous American ancestry (most similar to contemporary Maya individuals from southern Mexico), one had European ancestry, and one had African ancestry. Interestingly, none of these individuals had any evidence of mixed ancestry, suggesting that despite living nearby under colonial rule, strong social divisions may have endured at Campeche across generations during this early colonial period.</p>



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



<p>You can find out if you share a genetic connection to eight of the individuals from this study and learn more about colonial Campeche through <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches">23andMe’s Historical Matches feature</a>, which is available to all <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/">23andMe+ Premium</a><sup>TM </sup> members.</p>



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In 2000, Mexico's Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia excavated Campeche Cathedral, discovering burials of 129 individuals.

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