Why 23andme is NOT A Medical Test: Genetic Sequencing vs SNP testing explained

At-home genetic testing (also called Direct-to-consumer or DTC testing) has become very popular; but do you know the difference between these tests and tests ordered by a medical professional? What are these at-home tests missing?

In this video, you'll learn the difference between genetic sequencing technology (next generation sequencing/NGS) and SNP genotyping. I will illustrate how SNP genotyping is not an appropriate medical test using the example of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes on 23andMe. Other terms mentioned include; single nucleotide polymorphism, false negative, and others.

These are not your typical biology videos. This series is for anyone interested in learning about genetic testing today, what it can and can’t test, and how it relates to YOU. Subscribe and check back every Friday for a new short episode explaining something new to know in genetic medicine.

This video was written, animated, filmed, and edited by Dena Goldberg, MS, LCGC. For more information, go to DenaDNA.com.

FOLLOW DENA DNA:

[ahmedjameel]

Oh my
I wish if have seen this video before taking 23andme test 🤦 All I wanted is the health report..

Thanks for this amazing video 💙💙💙

[Renofirefly]

My 23and me test saved my life. My Hereditary Hemochromatosis results on my test was the piece i needed to solve my two decade long mystery illness.

[eugeneblokhin]

Thank you for the video! Could you tell what the odds of having a false positive result for a particular SNP with 23andMe and similar services (SNP testing) are? Thank you

[JasonDavid]

So Dena, if 23 and me detects a mutation in the gene, that doesn't necessary mean you have that mutation?