23andMe Launches Discover23 to Help Accelerate Large-Scale Genetics Research For Biopharma Collaborators, Powered By Lifebit's Trusted Technology

Core Viewpoint - 23andMe has launched Discover23®, a new research offering that allows authorized collaborators to access its extensive research cohort through a secure Trusted Research Environment (TRE) developed in partnership with Lifebit, aimed at enhancing biomedical research and drug development [1][4]. Group 1: Discover23 Overview - Discover23 provides access to genome-wide association studies (GWAS) based on over 4.7 billion phenotypic data points and 1,000+ disease cohorts curated by 23andMe's scientists [2]. - The platform evaluates associations of over 172 million genetic variants, with approximately 84% of 23andMe's 15 million customers opting into the research program [3]. Group 2: Privacy and Security - 23andMe emphasizes strong privacy protections, allowing customers to control their data and participate in research only if they consent, with personal identifiers stripped from the data used for research [5]. - The research program is overseen by a third-party Institutional Review Board (IRB) to ensure ethical standards are met [5]. Group 3: Strategic Partnerships - The collaboration with Lifebit aims to provide a secure platform for researchers, enhancing data security and supporting collaborative research in a controlled environment [4]. - 23andMe and Lifebit will showcase Discover23 and other solutions at the upcoming JPM Healthcare Conference in San Francisco [4].