Sequencing.com Launches Free Genetic Analysis To Assess Risk And Severity Of Coronavirus Infection For Each Individual

LOS ANGELES, March 19, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Sequencing.com, the world's largest online marketplace for DNA services, today launched a first-of-its-kind genetic analysis called the Coronavirus DNA Health Report that can quickly assess each user's individual risk of coronavirus infection and the likely severity of reaction to the virus, including the risks of serious illness or death.

Dr. Brandon Colby, Founder of Sequencing.com, said, "The coronavirus outbreak is not the first public health crisis our global society has faced in recent decades, but for the first time ever, through our Coronavirus DNA Health Report, genetic diagnostics and analysis are available that enable each individual to determine his or her likely level of infection risk and the severity of outcomes for the infected. From there, our Coronavirus DNA Health Report provides specific lifestyle and health insights that maximize prevention and preparedness."

The analysis behind the Coronavirus DNA Health Report is based on peer-reviewed, published research on coronavirus. Though preliminary, that body of research has identified specific genetic markers in a portion of the infected population that are associated with susceptibility to coronavirus infection as well as the potential impact upon health if infected.

The Coronavirus DNA Health Report Provides Actionable Guidance

Aside from evaluating users' coronavirus risks, the Coronavirus DNA Health Report delivers personalized, actionable guidance based on each person's DNA. A person who the Coronavirus DNA Health Report indicates may have a greater risk of a severe infection would be armed with vital information to take proactive, preventive measures. Higher risk individuals, for example, could be more aggressive about social distancing and could also ensure any medical conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, are closely monitored and well controlled.

"For anyone who may come in contact with the virus, knowing whether they are at risk for a severe infection can be a crucial piece of information that empowers them to make decisions on how to best protect themselves," Dr. Colby said. "Sometimes even the smallest lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on a person's wellbeing."

While Sequencing.com's Coronavirus DNA Health Report is not a test for the presence of the virus, it can be used in the context of other non-genetic factors to assess a user's risk for infection and the how sick they are likely to get if they catch the virus. Sequencing.com will continuously update the analysis process that generates the report as more is learned about the virus causing the current outbreak.

Free Versions of the Coronavirus DNA Health Report Available

Sequencing.com is offering free versions of the Coronavirus DNA Health Report for users who have already taken a DNA test, either through the company's own sequencing service or through popular, commercially available third-party services such as 23andMe and AncestryDNA. For users who have not yet taken a DNA test, the company offers a $69 DNA test as well as clinical-grade Whole Genome Sequencing for $399.

Once the user's DNA data is stored in the person's account at Sequencing.com, it takes about 10 minutes to generate the Coronavirus DNA Health Report.

The Coronavirus DNA Health Report is one of more than 90 applications and services on Sequencing.com that analyze DNA data and provide insights to empower users to make more informed choices about their health, nutrition and overall wellness. The applications can use data from practically any DNA test including widely available genetic testing services.

Dr. Colby concluded, "Right now, there are more questions about coronavirus than there are answers, including why some infections appear mild while others can require more intensive medical care and hospitalization. Our Coronavirus DNA Health Report uses the information in each individual's DNA to provide actionable answers. We view our Coronavirus DNA Health Report as a reflection of our broader mission of utilizing the latest genetic technologies to help individuals outsmart their genes and live longer, healthier lives."

About Sequencing.com

Sequencing.com was founded in 2014 by Dr. Brandon Colby, an expert, entrepreneur and author in the field of personal genomics. Prior to founding the company, Dr. Colby practiced personalized preventive medicine in Los Angeles. Sequencing.com leverages the accessibility and falling costs of genetic testing to provide analysis and useful, straightforward guidance to users who are seeking to unlock the information in their DNA to live healthier, happier, longer lives.

Sequencing.com's HIPAA and GDPR compliant platform provides safe, confidential storage of a person's genetic data while also providing access to the world's largest marketplace of DNA analysis apps and reports. Sequencing.com's App Market includes more than 90 DNA analysis apps that empower individuals and healthcare professionals to be able to easily tap into genetic data for deep and rich insights. Powered by Universal Genetic Data Compatibility, apps available through Sequencing.com can process genetic data from any genetic test including Ancestry, 23andMe, MyHeritage, exome sequencing and whole genome sequencing.

For those who haven't yet taken a DNA test, Sequencing.com also offers DNA testing for $69 and clinical-grade 30x Whole Genome Sequencing for $399. Sequencing.com is the one-stop-shop that collates and organizes available genetic-based apps and genetic tests into the world's largest App Store for DNA. For more information, please visit https://sequencing.com.

Sequencing.com is backed by Mucker Capital, a leading Los Angeles-based venture capital firm specializing in investments in early-stage software and Internet-based businesses.

About Mucker Capital

Mucker Capital invests in seed and "pre-seed" stage companies building defensible and scalable Internet software and services businesses outside Silicon Valley. The firm partners with exceptional entrepreneurs to provide their earliest institutional funding and works with them side-by-side to help launch and scale their new ventures. It is Mucker's conviction that it must provide more than just capital. As operators and entrepreneurs themselves, Mucker's partners roll up their sleeves and work with entrepreneurs in all parts of their businesses that need additional resources –- product development, customer development, business development, operational infrastructure, recruiting and fundraising.

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SOURCE Sequencing.com

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