DISQUS

Hsien Lei · 2 years ago

Great coverage, David. 23andMe has done a great job keeping a lid on the specifics of what they're doing. You can almost imagine that they're hoping to do touch on every DNA technology that's possible up to now and somehow make it relevant to the consumer. I think their success will hinge on 2 things:

1) Do people understand genetics to the extent that they'd be willing to pay money to play with their own DNA sequence? Are there enough of these types of people to make a profitable business? (And the cost of sequencing is another question. Most DNA tests cost in the range of $300-400. Got any cash under the sofa cushion?)

2) From my observations, privacy and the fear of Gattaca is first on people's minds when they consider the potential of having their DNA sequenced. I must admit that even though I've been involved in genetics almost all my life (from elementary school on...), I haven't come close to having my DNA tested in any way shape or form.

Sarah · 2 years ago

It costs $1000 per person to get tested. This sounds like something that would best serve the affluent. To most people $1000 means a mortgage payment. However, there are plenty of other DNA testing companies running so there must be a market for it. My question is say you find out that cancer runs in your family, what is the next step? It is not as though you can prevent something from happening simply by knowing about it. 23andme may want to branch out and provide other more affordable tests to the general public, rather than limit their service to only a $1000 kit.