
<h5 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-data-initiative-accelerates-access-to-vital-genetic-and-clinical-insights">Data initiative accelerates access to vital genetic and clinical insights</h5>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="675" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2.png" alt="Illustration of lungs on a background with a larger illustration of lungs" class="wp-image-34192" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2.png 1200w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-768x432.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-880x495.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lung-double-edited-2-1180x664.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></figure>



<p>At the 2025 World Conference on Lung Cancer in Barcelona, the 23andMe Research Institute, in collaboration with Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies and the health data software company Lifebit, introduced an open-source platform that could help fast-track research discoveries through a powerful new cancer data repository.</p>



<p>The announcement comes just a year after the start of the<a href="https://www.23andme.com/lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Lung Cancer Genetics Study</a>, spearheaded by 23andMe and bringing together more than 20 lung cancer advocacy and science organizations to recruit 10,000 people diagnosed with lung cancer. Their goal is to develop new ways to identify those at highest risk for lung cancer early, while also finding possible new treatments for this deadly cancer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Personal Drive Behind the Mission</h2>



<p>The effort is personal for many of the advocates who are part of the collaboration and also for Anne Wojcicki, founder and CEO of the 23andMe Research Institute. Anne&#8217;s sister Susan Wojcicki died of lung cancer last year, just as the study began.</p>



<p>&#8220;My sister was passionate about understanding the science behind lung cancer so future generations could prevent the disease and treat it. The Lung Cancer Genetics Study is a step towards achieving that.” Anne said.</p>



<p>In the months before her death, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/a-legacy-of-hope-in-the-fight-against-lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Susan had been very involved in helping to create the study with the hope that it could help others</a>. The idea was not just to leverage genetic data for insights into lung cancer but also to create a repository of data that would be available to as many qualified researchers as possible.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The platform — created through the collaboration between the 23andMe Research Institute, Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies, and Lifebit — offers a secure, open-source data platform for researchers to access this novel dataset. Powered by Lifebit&#8217;s Health Data Ecosystem, the platform provides qualified researchers with no-cost access to de-identified data from people diagnosed with lung cancer who have consented to participate in this research.&nbsp;</p>



<p>&#8220;More people die of lung cancer each year than breast, colon, and prostate cancer combined, yet it is one of the least funded for research. It’s important for this powerful new tool to be available at no cost to qualified researchers so that the best minds can work on unlocking the genetic insights that may lead to a cure,&#8221; said Anne.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Building a One-of-a-Kind Data Resource</h2>



<p>Since launching the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andme-launches-new-genetic-study-of-lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lung Cancer Genetics Study</a>, more than 1,200 people diagnosed with lung cancer have enrolled to participate in the research. The goal is to enroll 10,000 people by 2027, but the study has already assembled one of the most diverse cohorts ever for lung cancer genetic research.&nbsp;</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="464" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1024x464.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34183" style="width:242px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1024x464.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-300x136.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-768x348.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-880x399.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/teal_waldos-1180x534.jpg 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Genetics is just one of many factors involved in why some people develop lung cancer. Exposure to tobacco smoke is perhaps the best-known risk factor; however, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2409903/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">80 to 90%</a> of people with a history of tobacco exposure <em>never</em> get lung cancer, and many people <em>without</em> tobacco exposure get the disease. These facts<br>underscore the importance of investigating other, less well-known risk factors, like air pollution, radon exposure, and workplace-related exposures.</p>



<p>And there&#8217;s much more we don&#8217;t know about lung cancer. Many do not realize, for instance, that lung cancer is the <a href="https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/annual-cancer-facts-and-figures/2025/2025-cancer-facts-and-figures-acs.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">number one cause of cancer death in women</a> and <a href="https://www.massgeneralbrigham.org/en/about/newsroom/articles/most-common-cancers-in-women#:~:text=It%20may%20not%20surprise%20you,in%20women%20and%20people%20AFAB." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the second most common cancer in women</a>. Although lung cancer overall is decreasing because of declines in tobacco use, lung cancer among people who have never smoked <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7431055/#:~:text=As%20expected%2C%20the%20primary%20factor%20leading%20to,non%2Dsmokers%20has%20been%20noted%20to%20be%20increasing." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">is stable or increasing</a>, and <a href="https://www.webmd.com/lung-cancer/features/lung-cancer-women-who-never-smoked" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">two-thirds of people diagnosed with lung cancer with no smoking history are women</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Understanding the genetics of lung cancer may help unravel some of the factors underlying those statistics. Additionally, learning more about the underlying genetics could provide researchers with more insight into the biological mechanisms of the disease, aiding in the development of improved therapies and new diagnostics.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The de-identified data that participants in the Lung Cancer Genetic Study consented to share isn’t limited to just genetics. Many participants also chose to provide self-reported clinical, lifestyle, and even tumor biomarker data. The study will also follow participants over time, gathering important longitudinal data to help researchers understand the progression of cancer as well as the response to treatments.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Empowering Researchers</h2>



<p>By opening up access to qualified researchers, the collaborators aim to address significant gaps in current lung cancer research, break down institutional silos, and remove barriers to dataset access, thereby accelerating research progress.&nbsp;</p>



<p>&#8220;We&#8217;re delivering more than a data system — we&#8217;re enabling an entirely new model for research equity and access,&#8221; said Nadia Litterman, PhD, Director of Scientific Affairs and Partnerships at Troper Wojcicki Philanthropies.</p>



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



<p>Anyone who has been diagnosed with lung cancer can learn more and enroll in the study at<a href="http://23andme.com/lung-cancer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> 23andme.com/lung-cancer</a>.</p>



<p>Interested researchers can begin the data access request process by contacting TWP study program manager Caitlin Nichols at <a href="mailto:caitlin@twphilanthropies.org">caitlin@twphilanthropies.org</a>.&nbsp;</p>



<p></p>


Illustration of lungs on a background with a larger illustration of lungs

23andMe Blog

23andMe Blog Team

Powerful New Tool Opens Lung Cancer Data for Research Breakthroughs


<p>For many of us, reading is second nature, but it&#8217;s an arduous challenge for 5–10% of school-aged children with dyslexia. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40825760/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A new genetic study</a>—the largest of its kind to date—is helping scientists to expand our understanding of the genetic foundations of reading and dyslexia, uncovering dozens of previously unknown genetic factors. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-we-already-knew">What We Already Knew</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/open_book-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-34166" style="width:364px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/open_book-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/open_book-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/open_book-768x512.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/open_book-880x587.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/open_book-1180x786.jpg 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/open_book.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p><a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/study-identifies-genetic-links-to-dyslexia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Previous research</a>, using data from consented 23andMe research participants, had already successfully identified 42 genetic variants linked to a self-reported diagnosis of dyslexia and demonstrated that many of these genetic variants are also linked to cognitive ability and educational attainment.</p>



<p>This earlier work also supported a key idea: dyslexia isn&#8217;t a biologically distinct condition, but rather represents the lower end of a continuous spectrum of reading ability that varies naturally across the population.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-a-bigger-bolder-approach">A Bigger, Bolder Approach</h2>



<p>So, how do you find even more subtle genetic clues? You build a more powerful magnifying glass.</p>



<p>In this latest effort, researchers used a method, called multi-trait analysis of GWAS (MTAG), to combine the statistical power of two massive datasets:</p>



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>The GenLang Consortium&#8217;s study on reading skill (involving ~27,000 people).</li>



<li>The 23andMe study on dyslexia (involving over 1.1 million research participants).</li>
</ol>



<p>By merging the results, scientists created an effective sample size of over <strong>1.2 million individuals</strong>, dramatically boosting their power to detect genetic variants associated with dyslexia.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-landmark-discoveries">Landmark Discoveries</h2>



<p>The results from this powerful analysis represent a leap forward in our understanding of the genetics of dyslexia and reading ability.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dozens-of-new-genetic-loci">Dozens of New Genetic Loci</h3>



<p>The study found <strong>80 independent genome-wide significant regions</strong> linked to dyslexia. Of those, 36 had never been found by previous studies. Even more exciting, <strong>13 of these regions were completely novel</strong>, with no prior known association with dyslexia.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-clues-in-brain-development">Clues in Brain Development</h3>



<p>Digging deeper, many of the genes located in these newly identified regions play a role in early brain development. Specifically, they are highly active in neuronal pathways, especially during embryonic brain development. This provides new insights into how the brain may be wired for reading ability.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-an-evolutionary-angle">An Evolutionary Angle</h3>



<p>Interestingly, the researchers looked to see if there was evidence that the genetic factors influencing dyslexia have been subject to recent evolutionary pressure and found none. In other words, there does not appear to be any evolutionary advantage from the genetic variants associated with dyslexia for humans as we transitioned from hunter-gatherer societies to agricultural ones in Europe.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-big-picture-and-what-s-next">The Big Picture and What&#8217;s Next</h2>



<p>This research expands our map of the genetic landscape of dyslexia. By identifying the biological pathways involved, new avenues for future research into why reading is difficult for some people and how to develop better support strategies are opened.</p>



<p>It’s crucial to remember that genes are not destiny. The research team created a polygenic index—also known as a polygenic score—that tallies the effects of multiple genetic variants. This index was able to predict between 2.3% and 4.7% of the variance in reading skills in a separate, independent group of individuals. Meaning that there may be other genetic factors, but also education, environment, and support systems that help determine reading skills.</p>



<p>Finally, like much genetic research, this work was conducted primarily in people of European descent. A critical next step is to conduct similar large-scale studies in more diverse populations to ensure that the insights and potential benefits of this research can apply to everyone.</p>


New Study Expands Our Understanding of the Genetics of Dyslexia


<p>This August, we’re adding 23 new historical individuals whose genomes were studied as part of a large-scale investigation into one of Europe’s most iconic eras—the Viking Age (800–1050 CE).</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-a-viking">What is a Viking?</h2>



<p>The term Vikings refers to seafaring people from Scandinavia (present-day Denmark, Sweden, and Norway) who lived between the late 8th and late 11th centuries. Renowned for their sailing skills and distinctive longships, Vikings traveled widely—raiding, trading, and settling far beyond their homelands. Their influence stretched from the North Atlantic and Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean, North Africa, the Middle East, and even as far as North America.</p>



<p>This period of exploration and expansion left lasting cultural and genetic legacies across Europe and beyond, which scientists can now explore through ancient DNA.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-genetics-of-the-viking-age">Studying the Genetics of the Viking Age</h2>



<p>In 2020, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32939067/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers sequenced the genomes of 442 individuals</a> from archaeological sites across Europe and Greenland dating to, or around, the Viking Age. The results revealed that Viking populations were genetically diverse and spread their ancestries into many regions. For example, the study found evidence of:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Danish-like ancestry moving into England</li>



<li>Swedish-like ancestry reaching the Balkans</li>



<li>Norwegian-like ancestry influencing Ireland, Iceland, and Greenland</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-meet-some-of-the-newly-added-individuals">Meet Some of the Newly Added Individuals</h2>



<p>The 23 historical individuals we’re adding this month come from eight archaeological sites that span the wide geographic range touched by Vikings. Highlights include:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>A 10th-century ship burial on Tomme Island, Norway.</strong> Excavated in 1910, this large earthen mound overlooked a natural harbor and contained a mid-10th century ship, the remains of two individuals, and rich grave goods, including weapons and jewelry.</li>



<li><strong>The Salme ship burials, Saaremaa, Estonia.</strong> First discovered in 2008 during construction work, the site revealed two ship burials. The first contained seven individuals; the second, 34. These burials likely held warrior-seafarers who died in an armed conflict during the Vendel Period (8th century), which directly preceded the Viking Age.</li>



<li><strong>An Icelandic church buried under volcanic ash.</strong> Archaeologists uncovered a mid-10th century hall, an associated cemetery, and a church in southern Iceland. Based on volcanic ash layers from eruptions of Katla volcano, all individuals buried here died before 1300 CE, when the site was completely covered.</li>
</ul>



<p>And more!</p>



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



<p>Want to see if you share a genetic connection with these newly added Viking Age individuals—or hundreds of other historical people? 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>



<p></p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to Europe’s Viking Age


<p>This week, 23andMe added a new genetic report to help us all be more aware of an often overlooked contributor to health disparities.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="763" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1024x763.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34101" style="width:309px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1024x763.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-300x224.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-768x572.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-880x656.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic-1180x879.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/duffy-statistic.png 1224w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35994632/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nearly 70%</a> of Black and African Americans have two copies of a variant in the Duffy antigen gene that can cause them to have white blood cell (WBC) counts that are lower than most standard reference ranges.&nbsp;</p>



<p>People who have this genotype — called Duffy null status — do not have an increased risk for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32959868/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infection</a> or <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39825822/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">other health problems</a>. But they may be flagged incorrectly as having abnormally low WBC counts, which can negatively impact the healthcare they receive.&nbsp;</p>



<p><em><strong>&#8220;I&#8217;ve seen patients that are told that they might have cancer, go through painful bone marrow biopsies, miss out on joining clinical trials, or have critical medications like chemotherapy discontinued simply because their white blood cell counts were interpreted without understanding their Duffy status,&#8221;</strong></em> says Dr. Lauren Merz, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology at the University of Michigan, who is leading efforts to raise awareness about Duffy null status and develop Duffy null-specific reference ranges and who provided expert feedback on 23andMe&#8217;s new report.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-when-a-one-size-fits-all-blood-test-falls-short">When a one-size-fits-all blood test falls short</h2>



<p>When we have our blood drawn, testing labs use reference ranges to determine whether our results fall in the range considered &#8220;normal&#8221; or are too high or too low, which can flag the need for clinical follow-up. One common blood test measures neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infections.</p>



<p>Most neutrophil reference ranges are defined based on populations where Duffy null status is rare, such as people with European or Asian genetic ancestry. And blood testing labs don&#8217;t usually take into account Duffy status. As a result, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35994632/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nearly 25%</a> of healthy Black and African Americans with Duffy null status — and more than 15% of <em>all</em> Black and African Americans — have neutrophil counts below the standard reference range.</p>



<p>These individuals may be misdiagnosed with neutropenia (low neutrophil counts), which can lead to a number of downstream harms, including <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34180972/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unnecessary specialty referrals and follow-up tests</a> like bone marrow biopsies; <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exclusion from clinical trials</a> (because many trials require a minimum number of neutrophils that is higher than the normal range for people with the Duffy null genotype); and delayed or reduced access to medications for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34645395/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health conditions</a>, and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35724382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autoimmune disorders</a>. (<em>See the sidebar at the bottom for more details</em>.)</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-the-duffy-antigen-and-how-does-it-impact-white-blood-cells">What is the Duffy antigen, and how does it impact white blood cells?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignleft size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="87" height="138" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/research.b57972a5e8fa.svg" alt="an icon representing research" class="wp-image-29284" style="width:117px;height:auto"/></figure>



<p>The Duffy antigen is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells and certain other cells in the body. People with two copies of a specific <a href="https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/d/duffy-null-associated-neutrophil-count" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">genetic variant in the ACKR1 (Duffy antigen) gene</a> don&#8217;t express this protein on their red blood cells — giving rise to the name &#8220;Duffy null.&#8221;</p>



<p>Being Duffy null can also impact infection-fighting white blood cells called neutrophils. People who are Duffy null tend to have naturally lower levels of circulating neutrophils in the peripheral blood — <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37338884/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">about 40% lower, on average</a>. But they don&#8217;t have an increased risk for infection, because the total number of neutrophils in their bodies remains the same. (Their neutrophils just move from the blood into other tissues like the spleen more easily.)</p>



<p>In the past, healthy people with low neutrophil counts were said to have &#8220;benign ethnic neutropenia,&#8221; because the Duffy null variant is more common in certain populations. But the preferred name is now <a href="https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/d/duffy-null-associated-neutrophil-count" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Duffy null-associated neutrophil count (DANC)</a>, as this refers to the biological driver of Duffy status rather than the social construct of race or ethnicity — and highlights that lower neutrophil counts are normal for people who are Duffy null.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-is-duffy-null-status-associated-with-any-health-conditions">Is Duffy null status associated with any health conditions?</h2>



<p>To date, there is no robust evidence that people with Duffy null status are at increased risk for any health conditions. In fact, a <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39825822/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recent, large phenome-wide association study (PheWAS)</a> — which looked for potential associations between the Duffy null variant and 1,400 possible health conditions using the National Institutes of Health&#8217;s All of Us initiative and other cohorts — did not report any associations with disease. However, this is an active area of research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-is-duffy-null-status-most-common-in-certain-populations">Why is Duffy null status most common in certain populations?</h2>



<p>Although anyone can have Duffy null status, it is most common among people with African or Middle Eastern ancestry. In the U.S., two-thirds of people who identify as Black or African American have the Duffy null genotype, which means they do not express the Duffy antigen on their red blood cells.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Scientists believe this variant became common in certain populations because it <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21468018/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">helps protect against <em>Plasmodium vivax</em></a>, a malaria parasite that relies on the Duffy antigen to infect red blood cells. (The variant does not protect against other types of malaria.) Over generations, people in regions where this malaria parasite was widespread were more likely to inherit this protective variant, and it remains common today in people with ancestry from some malaria-endemic regions.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="934" height="597" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34139" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C.png 934w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-300x192.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-768x491.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/af_rs2814778_C-880x562.png 880w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 934px) 100vw, 934px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>23andMe data also show that the Duffy null genetic variant is most common in people with ancestry from parts of the world where Plasmodium vivax malaria is common.</em></figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-importance-of-raising-awareness">The importance of raising awareness</h2>



<p>Last year, the American Society of Hematology (ASH) launched the <a href="https://www.hematology.org/education/danc/danc-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC) by Duffy Status Project</a>, aimed at creating specific neutrophil reference ranges for people with the Duffy null genotype and advocating for broader awareness and testing.</p>



<p><strong><em>&#8220;The Duffy null genotype is a perfect example of how well-meaning systems can fall short when they don&#8217;t reflect the full diversity of the people they serve,&#8221; </em></strong>says Dr. Merz. <strong><em>&#8220;Raising awareness — among both clinicians and patients — is essential to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure more equitable and personalized care.&#8221;</em></strong></p>



<p>You can become your own advocate by learning about your Duffy status and sharing that information with your doctor.&nbsp;</p>



<p><em>The White Blood Cell Count (Duffy Antigen-Related) report is available to </em><a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>23andMe+ Premium™ members</em></a><em> with their other Wellness reports.</em></p>



<div style="float: left; text-align: justified; width: 700px; background-color: #eee; padding: 15px; margin-left: 5px;">
<p> 
<h3>A deeper dive: How lack of awareness of Duffy null status can lead to downstream harm</h3>
</p>
<p>
Although Duffy null status does not usually cause health problems, harms can arise when Duffy null individuals are misdiagnosed with abnormally low neutrophil counts. These harms can include:
<ul>
<li>
<b>Unnecessary follow-up testing.</b> In general, low neutrophil counts can prompt concern from doctors, because they can be caused by blood cancers like leukemia. Follow-up testing involves a bone marrow biopsy, which is an invasive and sometimes painful test. 
<br><br>Because their neutrophil counts may be naturally lower than standard reference ranges, people with Duffy null status are much more likely to receive <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34180972/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">unnecessary bone marrow biopsies</a>. And one study reported that Duffy null status was the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37419240/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">most common reason</a> for children to be referred to a children&#8217;s hospital for low neutrophil counts.
</li>
<br>
<li>
<b>Exclusion from clinical trials.</b> Many chemotherapy drugs reduce WBC production, which can make patients more susceptible to infections. As a result, most cancer clinical trials require patients to have a minimum neutrophil count before starting the trial, to help keep patients safe. 
<br><br>But a recent study found that more than 75% of cancer clinical trials have neutrophil thresholds that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">exclude some people with Duffy null status</a>. Researchers have suggested these exclusion criteria may be one reason that Black Americans are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37477920/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">less likely to be included in cancer clinical trials</a>.
</li>
<br>
<li>
<b>Delayed or reduced access to medications.</b> Because some medications reduce WBC production, patients often have their neutrophils counted before and during treatment, so that their clinicians can adjust the dose, delay the start of treatment, or discontinue medications if counts become too low. 
<br><br>Because people with Duffy null status tend to have lower starting neutrophil counts, they may experience reduced or delayed access to important medications for <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39259539/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cancer</a>, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34645395/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mental health conditions</a>, and <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35724382/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">autoimmune disorders</a>, or inappropriate dose adjustments. Because chemotherapy dose often increases the chance of survival, some scientists think that inappropriate chemotherapy dosing related to Duffy null status could help explain, in part, why <a href="https://www.cancer.org/about-us/what-we-do/health-equity/cancer-disparities-in-the-black-community.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">breast cancer mortality is higher in Black than white Americans</a>.
</li>
</ul>
</p>
</div>


The Duffy Antigen Gene: A Clue Behind White Blood Cell Differences


<p>Have you ever wondered why some people stutter? You’re not alone. Developmental stuttering—disruptions in the normal flow of speech, like repeating sounds or involuntary pausing on words— affects more than 400 million people worldwide. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40721530/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A new genetic study</a>, powered in part by data from more than one million consented 23andMe research participants, offers exciting insights into the genetics behind stuttering.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stuttering-often-starts-young-and-many-kids-recover">Stuttering Often Starts Young—And Many Kids Recover</h2>



<p>Most people who stutter begin showing signs between ages 2 and 5. For many, it’s temporary—about 80% of children who stutter will recover, often naturally and sometimes with the help of speech therapy. Interestingly, boys and girls are about equally likely to start stuttering, but by the time they reach adulthood, men are four times more likely to continue stuttering compared to women.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-genetics-of-stuttering-a-new-look">The Genetics of Stuttering: A New Look</h2>



<p>Until recently, research into the genetics of stuttering has been limited to a handful of rare genetic variants identified in families. But a new large-scale study is changing that. By combining genetic data from over a million individuals, researchers identified 57 genetic variants (in or near 48 unique genes) linked to self-reported stuttering.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="616" height="378" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Visualize-GWAS.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-30872" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Visualize-GWAS.jpg 616w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Visualize-GWAS-300x184.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 616px) 100vw, 616px" /></figure>



<p>Some of these genetic signals were ancestry- or sex-specific, meaning they were only significant associations in certain populations. Others were shared across groups, highlighting the complex nature of the genetics behind stuttering.</p>



<p>And there’s more: while most previously reported variants were too rare or not included in the dataset, this study still found strong genetic signals in three of the six candidate genes previously linked to stuttering—GNPTAB, GNPTG, and AP4E1—adding new weight to past findings.</p>



<p>Some of the genetic findings in this study also overlap with traits like depression, autism, and even beat synchronization (your ability to accurately synchronize your movements with a musical beat). These overlaps suggest that stuttering might share some genetic similarity with these other traits.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-value-of-diversity-in-genetic-research">The Value of Diversity in Genetic Research</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="406" height="444" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/CRC-Group.jpg" alt="An image to represent African Americans participating in 23andMe's colorectal cancer research." class="wp-image-32581" style="width:240px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/CRC-Group.jpg 406w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/CRC-Group-274x300.jpg 274w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 406px) 100vw, 406px" /></figure>



<p>One important takeaway from this study is the value—and the current limits—of genetic diversity in research. Researchers were able to create a polygenic risk score (PRS) for stuttering using data from people of European descent and found that it predicted stuttering risk well in both independent clinical and self-reported datasets. However, a lack of large, diverse datasets meant that the team couldn’t validate similar scores for people from other ancestry groups.</p>



<p>That’s why increasing diversity in genetic studies is so important. It helps ensure that the insights we gain are applicable to everyone.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-means-for-the-future">What This Means for the Future</h2>



<p>This study marks a major step forward in understanding the genetic contribution to stuttering. It confirms that stuttering, like many other traits, is influenced by a complex mix of genetic factors. And it highlights the importance of building inclusive, diverse research databases to ensure that discoveries can benefit as many people as possible.</p>



<p>Whether you’ve experienced stuttering yourself, know someone who has, or are just curious about the science of speech, studies like this help us better understand the fascinating interplay between genetics and communication.</p>



<p><em>Learn more about this study from our collaborators at </em><a href="https://news.vumc.org/2025/07/28/large-scale-study-defines-genetic-architecture-of-stuttering/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>Vanderbilt University Medical Center</em></a><em> and learn more about </em><a href="https://www.23andme.com/research/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><em>research at 23andMe</em></a><em>.</em></p>



<p></p>


Why Do People Stutter? Genetics Holds Some Clues


<p>A <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40691366/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new study</a> published this week demonstrates just how powerful large-scale genetic research can be when it comes to predicting health traits—like body weight. By combining data from consented 23andMe research participants with the GIANT consortium, an international group of scientists have created the most predictive polygenic score for body mass index (BMI) to date. The study used genetic data from up to 5.1 million individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping push the science forward in important and inclusive ways.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-s-a-polygenic-score">What’s a Polygenic Score?</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/2017/12/Data-Viz-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-25916" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-880x495.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz-1180x663.jpg 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/Data-Viz.jpg 1366w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Think of a polygenic score (sometimes called a polygenic risk score or PRS) as a genetic summary. It adds up the small effects of many different genetic variants—often thousands or even millions—that are each linked to a trait, like BMI. The higher your score, the higher your predicted BMI. These scores are increasingly used in research, and even clinical settings, to better understand traits and potential health risks.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-this-study-matters">Why This Study Matters</h2>



<p>One of the big takeaways from this research? <strong>The more data we include in building a polygenic score, the more accurate the predictions become.</strong> Thanks to the massive dataset, this new BMI polygenic score is one of the most accurate developed so far—and it&#8217;s also more applicable to people of diverse ancestries than previous versions.</p>



<p>Still, it’s important to note that while this polygenic score performs better across different populations, its accuracy is still highest in individuals of European descent. That’s because most genetic research to date has been heavily based on European-ancestry populations. Studies like this one help move the field toward more inclusive and equitable research.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-the-study-found">What the Study Found</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Childhood weight gain</strong>: A higher BMI polygenic score was linked to faster weight gain starting from age 2.5 onwards and an earlier “adiposity rebound”—a key moment in childhood growth when BMI dips and then begins to increase again. This could help identify children at higher risk of becoming overweight before other warning signs appear.<br></li>



<li><strong>Adult weight change</strong>: Between ages 20 and 50, people with higher BMI polygenic scores were more likely to gain weight. Interestingly, this was especially true for those who started adulthood at a weight lower than what their genetics might predict. It suggests that individuals with a genetic predisposition to higher weight may eventually &#8220;catch up&#8221; to their genetic set point over time.<br></li>



<li><strong>Lifestyle changes</strong>: In lifestyle intervention studies (think: intensive diet and exercise programs), people with a higher genetic predisposition to obesity tended to lose more weight during the first year—but they were also more likely to regain it. This pattern fits with previous research showing that people who are genetically predisposed to obesity often respond more dramatically to environmental changes, both positive and negative.<br></li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-this-study-doesn-t-say">What This Study Doesn’t Say</h2>



<p>This research doesn’t mean that lifestyle doesn’t matter. In fact, it’s just the opposite. Even with a high genetic predisposition to obesity, lifestyle choices—like diet, physical activity, sleep, and stress management—still have a meaningful impact. What polygenic scores offer is insight into who may be at higher risk and might benefit most from early interventions or targeted prevention strategies.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-final-thoughts">Final Thoughts</h2>



<p>Your genes are only one part of the story. While this research gives us a clearer picture of how genetics influence weight over time, it also highlights the importance of using that information wisely. At 23andMe, we believe that understanding your genetics can empower you to make informed health decisions—not define your destiny. As science continues to evolve, so do the tools we have to support healthier, more personalized approaches to wellness.</p>



<p></p>


What Your DNA Can (and Can’t) Tell You About Weight: New Study Highlights the Power of Polygenic Scores


<p>This July, in honor of French-American Heritage Month, we’re adding four new individuals from early medieval France to our <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/23andmes-historic-matches" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Historical Matches</a><sup>SM</sup> feature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-studying-the-demography-of-northern-france">Studying the Demography of Northern France</h2>



<p>In a <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-024-51087-1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2024 study published in Nature Communications</a>, researchers sequenced the genomes of 3,234 present-day individuals from across northern France to explore the region’s population history. As part of this study, they also analyzed the DNA of six historical individuals who lived between the 4th and 11th centuries CE, recovered from archaeological sites in the Pays de la Loire region of northwestern France—four of whom had DNA of high enough quality to be added to the Historical Matches feature.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-northwestern-france-in-the-early-medieval-period">Northwestern France in the Early Medieval Period</h2>



<p>The period between the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5<sup>th</sup> century and the rise of the Carolingian Empire in the 9<sup>th</sup> century was one of major cultural and demographic transformations in northwestern France. While few written records survive, archaeological and linguistic evidence points to a region shaped by interactions with British, Irish, and Germanic populations. This study offers new genetic insights into this transitional period in history.</p>



<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/2025/07/medieval_france-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34036" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-1024x576.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-300x169.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-768x432.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-880x495.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france-1180x664.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/medieval_france.png 1600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-dna-reveals-migration-across-europe-and-beyond">DNA Reveals Migration Across Europe—and Beyond</h2>



<p>By studying the genomes of present-day and historical individuals, the research team uncovered strong genetic links between the people of northern France and of Great Britain and Ireland, supporting the idea that migration—not just trade or cultural exchange—connected these regions during the early Middle Ages.</p>



<p>The study also revealed regional differences in ancestry across northern France. For instance, people living north of the Loire River had more ancestry linked to Bronze Age populations from the Eurasian Steppe, introduced to western Europe around 2500 BCE with the spread of the Bell Beaker culture. In contrast, those south of the river retained more ancestry from earlier Neolithic farming populations.&nbsp;</p>



<p>While most of the historical individuals whose genomes were sequenced in this study were genetically similar to modern northern French populations, the research team was surprised to discover that one individual had recent North African ancestry. This finding highlights the fact that long-distance mobility and migration played a role in shaping the demography of northern France, even during the Medieval Period.</p>



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



<p>Want to see if you share a genetic connection with any of these newly added individuals from early medieval France—or to hundreds of other historical individuals? The Historical Matches feature is available to <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium</a>™ members.</p>



<p></p>


New Historical Matches Could Connect You to Early Medieval France


<p>We’re excited to announce an update to our 23andMe Ancestry Service adding greater detail for people with East Asian ancestry. We previously introduced Genetic Groups in <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-groups-for-japan-and-scandinavia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Japan</a>, and now we&#8217;ve expanded our Genetic Groups in this region to include groups in China, Korea, and Mongolia. </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/2025/07/east_asia-1024x724.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34028" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-1024x724.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-300x212.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-768x543.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-880x622.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/east_asia-1180x834.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>More than 70% of our customers with a majority of their ancestry from China, Korea, or Mongolia, who tested on our <a href="https://customercare.23andme.com/hc/en-us/articles/218392668-Upgrading-to-23andMe-s-Newest-Chip-Version" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">latest genotyping chip</a>, are expected to see a new match to at least one of these regions. And <a href="https://www.23andme.com/membership/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">23andMe+ Premium™ members</a> will also be able to see any distant Genetic Group connections they may have.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-china">China</h3>



<p>With its vast geography and thousands of years of continuous civilization, China’s population tells a story of ancient migrations, dynastic expansions, and cultural blending. Beyond its borders, waves of Chinese emigration over the past few centuries—spurred by trade, labor opportunities, and political upheaval—have spread the Chinese diaspora across Southeast Asia, North America, and beyond. These new Genetic Groups may give you the opportunity to trace your lineage back to specific regions and uncover the stories of movement, adaptation, and resilience.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-korea">Korea</h3>



<p>Shaped by rugged mountains, fertile river valleys, and a deep sense of cultural continuity, Korea tells a story of resilient kingdoms and a people who have preserved their culture through centuries of challenge and change. From the ancient kingdom of Gojoseon to the powerful Three Kingdoms era and the long reign of the Joseon dynasty, Korean history is marked by innovation, Confucian scholarship, and a strong cultural backbone. Despite invasions, colonization, and the lasting division of the peninsula, Korea has maintained a distinct language, script, and cultural legacy.&nbsp;</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mongolia">Mongolia</h3>



<p>Known as the birthplace of the Mongol Empire, Mongolia has a deep nomadic heritage that stretches across the steppes of Central Asia. Mongolia rose to global prominence under the leadership of Genghis Khan in the 13th century, uniting nomadic tribes and forging connections from Europe to Asia. Despite centuries of foreign influence, Mongolia has preserved its language, identity, and nomadic heritage. Today, its past lives on not just in epic histories, but in the enduring customs and landscapes of the steppe.</p>



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



<p>The 23andMe 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 <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/new-genetic-groups-in-eastern-europe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eastern Europe</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/european-diaspora-genetic-groups-update" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European diasporas in North America and South Africa</a>, <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-french-german-us-canada" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">French and German Groups in North America</a>, and <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/genetic-groups-south-asia" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">South Asia</a> for instance.</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" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">latest genotyping chip</a>, V5, you can see your results in your Ancestry Composition report.</p>



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



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">New Genetic Groups added as part of this update:&nbsp;</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">China and Taiwan</h4>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Bohai Sea</li>



<li>Central Guangdong Coast</li>



<li>Changle District</li>



<li>Chaoshan Region</li>



<li>Gan and Xiang River Basins</li>



<li>Greater Taishan Region</li>



<li>Guangdong Coast</li>



<li>Guanghai Bay</li>



<li>Hai and Liao River Basins</li>



<li>Hainan</li>



<li>Hong Kong</li>



<li>Hong Kong–Shenzhen Region</li>



<li>Hongshui River Basin</li>



<li>Jiao River Basin</li>



<li>Lower Dong River Basin</li>



<li>Lower Min River Basin</li>



<li>Luan and Songhua River Basin</li>



<li>Luoyuan Bay</li>



<li>Min River Estuary</li>



<li>North and Northeast China Plains</li>



<li>Northern Fujian Coast</li>



<li>Northern Guangzhou</li>



<li>Northern Jiangmen</li>



<li>Northern Pearl River Delta</li>



<li>Northern Taishan</li>



<li>Northern Taiwan</li>



<li>Ou River Basin</li>



<li>Pearl River Delta</li>



<li>Shandong and Liaodong Peninsulas</li>



<li>Sichuan Basin</li>



<li>Southeastern China Coast</li>



<li>Southern Guangxi</li>



<li>Southern Jiangmen</li>



<li>Southern Tibetan Plateau</li>



<li>Southwestern Taiwan and Penghu Islands</li>



<li>Taichung Basin</li>



<li>Taihang Mountains</li>



<li>Taipei Basin</li>



<li>Taiwan Strait</li>



<li>Tarim Basin</li>



<li>Wenzhou Coastal Plains</li>



<li>Western Pearl River Delta</li>



<li>Wugui Mountain Region</li>



<li>Xishuangbanna</li>



<li>Yangtze River Delta</li>



<li>Yong River Basin</li>



<li>You River Basin</li>



<li>Zhongshan–Zhuhai Coast</li>



<li>Zhuoshui and Dajia River Basins</li>



<li>Zuo River Basin</li>
</ul>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Korea</h4>



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



<li>Honam</li>



<li>Honam Plain</li>



<li>Jeju Island</li>



<li>Lower Yeongsan River Basin</li>



<li>Mudeungsan</li>



<li>Naejangsan and Haenam Peninsula</li>



<li>Nakdong River Basin</li>



<li>Nam River Basin</li>



<li>North-Central Korean Peninsula</li>



<li>Northern Sobaek Mountains</li>



<li>Southern Sobaek Mountains</li>



<li>Southwestern Korean Coast</li>



<li>Yeongnam</li>
</ul>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Mongolia</h4>



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



<li>Eastern Gobi Desert</li>



<li>Eastern Mongolian Steppe</li>



<li>Gobi Altai Mountains</li>



<li>Lake Khövsgöl and Ider River Basin</li>



<li>Lower Selenge River Basin</li>



<li>Mongolian Altai Mountains</li>



<li>Northern Great Lakes Depression</li>



<li>Northern Lake Baikal</li>



<li>Orkhon River Basin</li>



<li>Southern Great Lakes Depression and Suman River Basin</li>



<li>Southwestern Lake Baikal</li>



<li>Transbaikal Region</li>



<li>Tuul River Basin and Southern Khangai Mountains</li>



<li>Western Khangai Mountains</li>



<li>Zavkhan River Basin</li>
</ul>


23andMe Adds New Ancestry Details for China, Korea, and Mongolia


<p><em>by Destiny Gordon</em>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>We often blame everything on not getting enough sleep—feeling foggy, moody, exhausted, or just off. And while sleep quantity matters, what many of us don’t realize is that it’s not only about <em>how much</em> sleep we get—but <em>when</em> we get it. At the core of it all is your body’s internal clock, known as your circadian rhythm. This quiet, biological timekeeper is constantly at work, regulating everything from <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28165421/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">hormone release and metabolism</a> to <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/why-your-sleep-and-wake-cycles-affect-your-mood-2020051319792" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mood and energy</a>. And when it falls out of sync—whether due to shift work, late nights, excessive screen time, or simply inconsistent routines—your health can start to feel out of balance in ways that go far beyond basic tiredness.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-circadian-rhythm">What is circadian rhythm?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-25757" style="width:448px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-300x200.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-768x513.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-880x587.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980-1180x788.jpg 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/iStock-640228980.jpg 1254w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Circadian rhythm is the natural cycle your body goes through in a 24-hour period. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36028773/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Genetics</a> plays a key role in determining circadian rhythm. In fact, the researchers who first uncovered the genetic basis of circadian rhythm won the <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/articles/nobel-worthy-sleep-science" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2017</a>. Your circadian rhythm <a href="https://nigms.nih.gov/education/fact-sheets/Pages/circadian-rhythms" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">influences</a> when your brain is sharp, when your body digests food efficiently, and when it needs deep rest. And for women, the interaction between daily circadian rhythms and monthly hormone fluctuations creates <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35101914/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a unique layer of complexity</a>. At different points in the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17383933/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">menstrual cycle</a>, shifts in estrogen and progesterone can make your body more sensitive to sleep disruption, stress, and energy dips. So if your daily rhythm is already out of sync, those hormonal shifts can hit harder—amplifying symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, poor focus, or disrupted sleep. It’s a compounding effect that makes it even more important to stay in rhythm.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-happens-when-you-re-misaligned-to-your-circadian-rhythm">What happens when you&#8217;re misaligned to your circadian rhythm?</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="691" height="1024" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption-691x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-34017" style="width:219px;height:auto" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption-691x1024.png 691w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption-203x300.png 203w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption-594x880.png 594w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/circadian-rhythm-disruption.png 748w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 691px) 100vw, 691px" /></figure>



<p>Research has shown that <a href="https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/circadian-rhythm-disorders/causes" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">disruptions to this internal rhythm</a>—like being awake when your body naturally wants to be asleep, sleeping at inconsistent times due to shift work, or missing natural light cues—can throw off the timing of critical biological processes. This circadian misalignment can increase the <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38564856/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">risk of real, long-term health issues for</a> both men and women. These shifts are linked to <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4868418/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mood disorders</a> like anxiety and depression, <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21270661/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">weight gain</a>, <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6167165/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">insulin resistance</a>, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s44325-024-00024-8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cardiovascular issues</a>, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1389945706006216" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">irregular menstrual cycle</a>, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1556407X07001191" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and even fertility challenges</a>. And because these symptoms often start subtly, it’s easy to miss the connection until the effects become harder to ignore.&nbsp;</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-can-we-do-to-keep-our-lives-aligned-to-our-circadian-rhythm">What can we do to keep our lives aligned to our circadian rhythm?</h2>



<p>The tricky part? Circadian disruption often hides in plain sight. It doesn’t always feel like a big, dramatic problem. It can look like staying up a little too late, skipping meals, waking up at inconsistent times, or scrolling in bed just a bit too long. These small habits may not seem like much, but if they happen repeatedly over time, they chip away at your body’s natural rhythm.&nbsp;</p>



<p>The good news? Once you start to tune in, you can make <a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/circadian-rhythm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">small, manageable changes</a> to help bring your body back into sync. Things like going to bed and waking up at the same time every day (yes, even on weekends), getting exposure to natural light in the morning, limiting caffeine later in the day, and avoiding screens at least an hour before bed can all support a healthier rhythm. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about creating enough consistency that your body knows when to rise, when to rest, and everything in between.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Because when your body runs in rhythm, everything works better. Your mind feels clearer. Your energy lasts longer. Your health feels like it’s working <em>with</em> you, not against you. So maybe it’s not just about getting more sleep. Maybe it’s time to get back in sync.</p>



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



<p><em><strong>About Destiny:</strong>&nbsp; Destiny Gordon is a rising second-year medical student at Morehouse School of Medicine, originally from Jacksonville, Florida. She is the founder of InnerLight ATL, a youth mental health initiative focused on building safe, supportive spaces for emotional wellness. With over three years of experience in cancer research and a passion for community-centered care, Destiny is dedicated to blending science, advocacy, and storytelling to inform and inspire.</em></p>


Latest Posts — Page 8