23 May 2025
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AI image generated by ChatGPT 23052025
Having filed for bankruptcy in March 2025, following a difficult few years’ trading since going public in 2021, 23andMe is now due to be bought by Regeneron for US$256 million
Subject to approval by the bankruptcy courts and regulatory bodies, the sale of 23andMe to American pharmaceutical company, Regeneron, is due to complete in Autumn 2025
Why would a drugs company wish to buy 23andMe?
At present Regeneron has a database of 3 million DNA testers. With an estimated 15 million people having tested with 23andMe, the majority of whom have historically provided permission for their DNA to be used for research purposes, the Regeneron research centre DNA database stands to grow and benefit dramatically with the inclusion of many of the 23andMe customers.
What does the sale of 23andMe mean for existing customers?
Reading of current terms and conditions and ensuring your account settings reflect your current preferences is advised.
Regeneron states: ‘Regeneron will prioritize the privacy, security and ethical use of 23andMe’s customer data’, additionally clarifying, ‘Regeneron intends to ensure compliance with 23andMe’s consumer privacy policies and applicable laws with respect to the treatment of customer data’. Family historians who have tested with 23andMe may also be pleased to learn that ‘23andMe will be operated as a wholly owned direct or indirect subsidiary of Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and continue operations as a personal genomics service’.
Find out more from Regeneron and 23andMe
Read about the en masse resignation of the 23andMe board in September 2024 here