NEW YORK (GenomeWeb) – Indian consumer genomics company Mapmygenome is partnering with blockchain genetics startup Digital DNAtix to provide extra security and privacy for its direct-to-consumer genetic tests. The blockchain technology also will allow researchers to access anonymous data for their work, the companies said.
Digital DNAtix, of Ramat Gan, Israel, will provide Mapmygenome with a platform to offer its genome testing, analysis, and related personalized medicine services in a faster, more secure environment than previously available.
"Anyone can anonymously upload partial and/or full genome sequences onto the DNAtix platform, and then have access to to their genomic data which they can use to make informed decisions," Digital DNAtix CEO Ofer Lidsky said in a statement.
"It opens doors to a much larger audience base, and adds another layer of security with the promise of blockchain in addition to our secure lab information management systems," added Anu Acharya, CEO of Hyderabad, India-based Mapmygenome. "By utilizing DNAtix's blockchain-based platform for furthering the availability and accessibility to genomic services globally, we are taking yet another step towards empowering the masses with the promise of personal genomics — a doorway to preventive, predictive, personalized, precise medicine."
Mapmygenome, which launched in 2013, raised $1.1 million in an early financing round in 2015. The company reportedly raised an additional $20 million in 2016.