Personal genome scans to cost as little as $399

Just two years ago, the sequence of the last chromosome was published in "Nature." It took $3 billion in public funding and hundreds of researchers from USA, Canada, UK and other countries to sequence human genome. Considering there are 3 billion base pairs (DNA building blocks) in human genome, it worked out to roughly $1 per base pair. Private venture Celera Genomics headed by scientist and entrepreneur Craig Venter ran a parallel human genome sequencing project but strived for faster and cheaper outcome. The privately funded project took 15 months longer to complete but cost $300 million, a mere fraction in comparison to a whopping $3 billion public-funded project cost. This private genome sequencing was an audacious example of biotechnological entrepreneurship, which revealed the true potential of the biotech industry.

Now the race to assign utility to human genome sequences is on. Companies are on the mission to cut the costs of genome sequencing and analysis to be able to sell genomic information to average consumers.

23andMe, a private biotech company, used to sell genome scanning chips for $1000. Yesterday they announced the price of their genome scan chip will be cut down to match that of an 8GB iPod ($399 to be exact). This sensational price drop of almost 60% is yet another breakthrough in personalized genomics industry. Given the kind of information that the genome scanning chip can provide, one might consider investing.

The chip can help detect predisposition for the following conditions:  
The chip uses 1-2 gene markers to check client’s genome against in order to assess genetic risk for a given condition. The company’s website offers to buy the kit online and even suggests creating a demo account to explore features of the service they offer through the profile of the example family, the Mendels.

23andMe is also tapping into genealogical industry by announcing a new partnership with Ancestry.com.