Tag

Genetic Data

All articles tagged with #genetic data

science4 months ago

Guide to Enhancing Research with Biobanks

Researchers are increasingly leveraging biobanks, large collections of biological samples and data, to enhance scientific studies. The article highlights how biobanks like the UK Biobank facilitate access to extensive, diverse datasets, enabling breakthroughs in health research, despite challenges related to costs, legalities, and underutilization. The growth of biobanking, driven by technological advances, is transforming research capabilities across the globe.

business7 months ago

Anne Wojcicki Acquires 23andMe in $305 Million Deal

23andMe has agreed to sell its assets, including its genetic testing and research services, to TTAM Research Institute for $305 million, following a court-approved bidding process that included a backup bid from Regeneron. TTAM commits to maintaining privacy policies, enhancing consumer protections, and continuing scientific research, with the transaction subject to court approval scheduled for June 17, 2025.

law7 months ago

US Lawsuit Challenges 23andMe's Sale of Customer Genetic Data

Multiple US states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Florida, sued 23andMe to prevent the sale of its customers' genetic data following the company's bankruptcy filing, arguing that such data cannot be sold without customer consent. The company plans to auction over 15 million DNA profiles collected through its testing kits, but faces legal challenges from state attorneys general who claim the sale violates privacy laws. 23andMe maintains that the sale complies with privacy policies and law, and the case is part of ongoing bankruptcy proceedings.

business7 months ago

23andMe Reopens Auction Amid Bankruptcy and New Bids

The sale process of 23andMe has been reopened with new bids after a previous deal with Regeneron was announced. Co-founder Anne Wojcicki, through her nonprofit TTAM Research Institute, has increased her bid to over $305 million, surpassing Regeneron's offer, as the auction heats up with new rules allowing Regeneron to counter with at least $315 million. The sale raises privacy concerns, but both parties have committed to maintaining existing privacy policies.

medical-research2 years ago

Unlocking the Treasure Trove: UK Biobank Releases Largest Ever Genome Study

UK Biobank has released the largest ever set of patients' genetic data, consisting of whole genome sequencing data for half a million people. This landmark release provides researchers with an unprecedented level of detail about human health, enabling them to make new discoveries about disease development and potentially drive advancements in personalized medicine. The data could lead to the development of more effective drugs for diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, rare genetic diseases, and cancers. It may also facilitate targeted healthcare and interventions for individuals at high genetic risk of disease. The release of this data is expected to have transformative results for diagnoses, treatments, and cures worldwide.

science-and-technology2 years ago

China's Genetic Data Acquisition Sparks Global Arms Race Concerns

China's Fire-Eye labs, a portable genetic testing facility, has attracted the attention of Western intelligence agencies amid concerns about China's intentions. The labs, which have rapidly spread to multiple countries during the COVID-19 pandemic, have been accused of collecting human DNA data from nations around the world. China's collection effort, which has been ongoing for over a decade, includes the acquisition of US genetics companies and refined hacking operations. While Chinese officials deny any inappropriate access to genetic data, Western intelligence officials remain wary of China's hidden agenda in gathering highly valuable human DNA data.

science2 years ago

Revised Amphibian Family Tree Challenges Previous Frog Evolution Timeline

A groundbreaking study has produced the most comprehensive evolutionary tree of frogs to date, encompassing 5,242 species. The research not only revises the timeline for frog evolution but also introduces innovative software that can be applied to other organisms. By combining genetic data from various sources, including phylogenomic studies and smaller-scale studies, the researchers were able to create a detailed family tree, representing a 71% increase in species coverage compared to previous trees. This study provides valuable insights into frog evolution and offers new avenues for future research in anuran amphibians.

health2 years ago

"Non-Fat Tissue Mass Linked to Lower Alzheimer's Risk and Improved Cognitive Performance"

Individuals with higher genetically estimated lean body mass have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, according to a study using genetic data from the UK Biobank. The study also found that those with higher lean mass in their arms and legs tend to have better cognitive performance. The research suggests that lean mass may be a potential modifiable protective factor for Alzheimer's disease, although further investigation is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and implications.

science-and-technology2 years ago

China's Genetic Data: A Hidden Treasure It Refuses to Share

China is investing heavily in its efforts to become a global leader in the biosciences by collecting and asserting more oversight over its vast genetic data resources. The government has launched a "national genetic survey" to centralize and standardize existing data, while also tightening controls on foreign access. However, experts warn that this genetic hoarding could hinder international research collaboration and backfire on China's own aspirations. The country's fragmented biobanking system and scattered databases pose challenges, and the new regulations aim to address these issues. China's strict approach to genetic material is driven by concerns over illegal outflow and a desire for "genomic sovereignty," but it risks hindering scientific advancement and collaboration.