New companies are using DNA profiles for commercial use, to "mine" personal information. Now Google has bought a share in an online DNA Service.
People are talking a lot about DNA lately. I recently read an article from the United Kingdom where Britain’s Lord Justice Sedley suggested that everyone in the country (and all who visit) add their genetic information- their DNA profiles – to the Home Office database that already holds the DNA information of over four million people, which translates to five percent of the British population.
Human Genome Project
Ever since the Human Genome Project in 2003 in which the first set of 23 human chromosomes was decoded, scientists and the biotech industry have been exploring all possible avenues of exploiting this potential goldmine of information.
At present a group of new companies is offering to “mine’ your genes for information about your ancestors.
Oxford Ancestors - Personal Ancestry Resrearch
Oxford Ancestors claims to be the world’s leading provider of DNA-based services for use in personal ancestry research. Their services and products, they say, provide the scientific insight that allows people to explore and discover their own ancient genetic roots.
Not to be left out of the future, Google recently bought a $3.9 million minority stake in a Californian company called 23andme.
23andme - Personalized DNA Service
23andme offers a personalized a web-based service that helps you read and understand your DNA . I also has your information stored, so that when medical and theoretical advances, relevant to your DNA profile are archived, you will be notified. The blurb says something about…after providing a saliva sample using an at-home kit, people can use their interactive tools to shed new light on their distant ancestors, their close family and most of all, themselves.
Imagine DNA Google Alerts– cool or creepy?
