2009 Predictions in Personalized Genetics
Hsien-Hsien Lei shared her 2009 predictions about personalized genetics with us and that’s where I would like to leave a few comments.
1. 23andMe will begin selling their tests on drugstore shelves.
I think they would be sued soon.
2. President Barack Obama will be offered genome sequencing.
He cannot and mustn’t accept it.
3. Apple will launch iSEQ – instant DNA testing and analysis in a handheld device.
I don’t think Apple will ever enter this market.
4. The first 10 participants in the Personal Genome Project will band together to be called Fantastic Ten. Each will reveal secret superpowers that are embedded in their DNA.
That is a possibility. But if they think wisely, they will never do something like that.
5. The U.S. government passes laws to obtain DNA from all its citizens which it says will help protect the innocent and punish criminals.
It was only possible in Iceland and will never be possible in the US.
What I think about 2009 is that Navigenics will rule the market even if its service is more expensive than the kit of 23andMe.
Further reading:
- Patient’s DNA May Be Signal to Tailor Medication (NYT)
-
2009, Kansas is going Bye Bye! (The Gene Sherpa)
- Personal genomics in 2008: the year in review (Genetic Future)
I like the Fantastic Ten prediction … Steven Pinker already has superhero hair !
Don’t think #5 will happen? Why not?
Many states collect DNA after conviction and do not remove the data if the conviction is overturned. IIRC at least one state collects DNA on arrest/indictment and even if no-one in the US does I’d bet a year’s salary that law enforcement would *love* to.
As for illegal use and data retention we have excellent examples of each: “Joe the Plumber” for the first and the ATF keeping form 4473 against legal requirements for data destruction.
Everyone thinks “it can’t happen here” for their own country. Rest assured, it can.
Berci,
The superpowers will only be revealed during an eclipse…..Don’t you watch Heroes???
As for the Navigenics thing, I think they need to lower there prices. Even concierge docs can’t convince their patients to spend more on this ONE test, than they do for an entire years worth of healthcare…..
Navigenics will either drop the price….or drop out…..Take your pick.
Good predictions by Hsien though……
-Steve
http://www.thegenesherpa.blogspot.com