Company history
Genos was spun out of Complete Genomics, a next generation sequencing company, and completed a private venture-backed financing in May 2016. The company was co-founded by Mark Blumling (former founder of Hyperion Therapeutics) and Dr. Clifford Reid (former founder and CEO of Complete Genomics). According to SNPedia, one of the major differences between Genos and other consumer genomic companies is the amount of genetic data sequenced. Genos sequences the entire exome, covering 50 million genomic loci, while other consumer offerings cover 1 million or less.
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Sequencing Services
Genos currently offers its sequencing service available for $499. This includes:
Users provide a saliva sample and mail the DNA kit back to Genos. Genos conducts DNA sequencing using next generation sequencing technology and returns data to the user through the Genos digital platform. Genos also supports importing pre-sequenced whole exome or whole genome data from certain institutions like the Personal Genome Project. Genos has stated that starting in late 2016, it will enable users to share data with research partners on a study-by-study basis and provide compensation to users if they choose to share.
Impact Network
Genos recently launched its Impact Network which allows customers to share their genetic data with research studies in exchange for personal compensation, ranging anywhere from $50 to $200 per project. Genos maintains that users always need to opt-in to these studies, and the company will never share genetic data without permission. The first studies include new research for a vaccine for breast cancer and a clinical trial for treating lymphoma. With the Impact Network, researchers and labs globally can get access to a new pool of genetic information to further explore new relationships to health and wellness.
Philosophy on data ownership
Genos maintains that users own and control their own data and that such data is never shared without consent. Genos allows users to share their data through the platform, or export their sequenced data so that they can port their data to other providers or genetic counselors.