DNA Info Grab
As DNA collection shifts from a research venture to a commercial enterprise, your genes are in demand. Private companies offer genetic analysis for clues to your ancestry, depression risk, even ideal eating habits. All you have to do is mail in a sample. But consumers beware, PATRICIA ROCHE and GEORGE ANNAS write in the New England Journal of Medicine. No federal privacy law prevents these companies from reselling collected DNA or retesting it later. Especially with the uncertain science backing up many analysts’ claims, they recommend keeping your DNA samples to yourself.
In an article in the same issue, ADAM J. WOLFBERG details the extensive repertory of genetic tests now available online.