Genomelink Review: Everything You Need To Know Before Buying
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Genomelink Review: Everything You Need To Know Before Buying
Date of Content: November 16, 2023
Written by: Avanthika Nityanand
Reviewed by: Maarit Tiirikainen, Ph
About Genomelink
Genomelink is a consumer genetic testing company. Their primary vision is to enable billions of people with easy access to their DNA data. Rapid advancements in genomics and sequencing technology fuel this vision. The company likens the current state of DNA data accessibility to the early days of the internet when only a few had access to technologies like mobile phones and personal internet.
One of Genomelink’s vision highlights is building a DNA App Store. This innovative platform aims to allow individuals to fully utilize their DNA data, breaking free from the limitations set by singular DNA test services. Genomelink’s approach enhances personal discovery and health insights for users and opens new avenues for businesses and researchers seeking to connect with individuals with DNA data. At the heart of Genomelink’s mission is empowering users through ownership and diverse application of their genetic information, marking the beginning of an exciting journey in the world of genomics.
An In-Depth Review Of All Genomelink Reports
Global Ancestry
This report is based on the knowledge that chromosomes, despite moving together within the same organism, each have their distinct evolutionary histories. This individuality results from the process where ancestors pass down chromosomes to their descendants. Before transmission, these chromosomes undergo a reshuffling at the individual chromosome level. This random reshuffling process leads to various genetic combinations over generations.
Populations Covered
Arctic
Native Peoples of North America
Native Peoples of the Amazon and Caribbean
Native Peoples of Andes
Maritime East Asia
Mainland East Asia
Southeast Asia
Austronesian
Dravidian
Oceanian
Italian
Balkan
West Asian
Iberian
Eastern European
Northwestern Europe
Scandinavian
North African
West African
East African
Near East
African Hunter-Gatherer
Available Tools
3D Globe: This 3D tool allows for an immersive exploration of ancestral origins, presenting a novel way to engage with one’s genetic history.
Chromosome Breakdown: The service includes a detailed chromosome breakdown, enhancing users’ journey into their genetic past. This feature provides an in-depth analysis, offering a higher-resolution view of their ancestry.
Content: The company has developed dynamic and informative content covering over 20 potential global ancestral populations. This aims to reveal new and enlightening facts about users’ ancestors, enriching their understanding of their lineage.
Native American Ancestry
The report provides a detailed breakdown of up to ten indigenous ancestries using advanced algorithms and a comprehensive dataset. The Native American DNA test extends beyond the basic information usually offered by standard DNA tests, allowing individuals to explore their unique genetic background and its connection to different indigenous groups.
Native American ancestries covered:
Arctic Islands
Alaska
Plains and Eastern Woodlands
Sonoran Desert
Mesoamerica
Mayans
Central America
Amazon
Northern Andes
Southern Andes / Patagonia
European Ancestry
The Genomelink European Ancestry report covers the following populations:
Central European Jewish
South Slavic
South Balkan
Northern Europe
Eastern Europe
Basque
lberian
Great Britain
French
German
Irish
Southern Italy
Roma
Hispanic Jews
Scandinavian
Mediterranean Islander
Tirolean Alpine
Ancient European Ancestry
The report examines human ancestry spanning from 12,000 BC to 2,000 BC. It explores the possibility that individuals today may have inherited DNA from people across various epochs within this timeline. Each epoch is distinct, and the study considers the genetic contributions from ancestors of each period.
Populations covered:
First European farmers
Pioneer farmers
Maritime farmers
Western European Foragers
Megalith builders
Bronze Age Herder
Asian Ancestry
The Genomelink Asian Ancestry report covers the following populations:
Siberian
Dai
Vietnamese
Burmese
Levantine
Turkic
Han
North Indian
South Indian
South Indian Pastoralist
Melanesian
East Indian Tribal
South Indian Tribal
Austronesian
Japanese
Eastern Negrito
Western Negrito
Himalayan
Korean
African Ancestry
The Genomelink African Ancestry report covers 72 ethnicities across ten groups:
Southern African Niger-Congo
Southern African Khosian
East African Afro-Asiatic
North Africa
Central African Hunter-Gatherers
Central West African Niger-Congo
East African Niger-Congo
East African Nilo-Saharan
West African Niger-Congo
East African Hunter-Gatherers
The report includes an in-depth look into various African ancestries, including their history, traditions, and cultural practices.
Latin-American Ancestry
Genomelink has partnered with SOMOS, a provider dedicated to Latin-American ancestry breakdown from your DNA raw data, for this report. It covers the following sub-regions:
Pima
Tarahumara
Huichol
Nahua & Otomi
Triqui
Mixteca
Zapoteca
Maya
Andes
Amazonas
UK Ancestry
The report offers a detailed analysis of the British Isles, categorizing it into 21 unique geographical sub-regions, including South East England, North West Scotland, and Cornwall.
Wales
Southeast Border
South
North
Scotland
South West and Noi
Orkney
North West
Aberdeenshire
Ireland
Ireland
England
South East
Yorkshire South
South
South Central
North West
Northumbria
Yorkshire North
Lincolnshire
Anglia
Devon
Cumbria
Cornwall
Hunter vs. Farmer Report
Were your ancestors more Hunter-Gatherers or Farmers? This report can help you discover answers.
Ancient Ancestry
The Ancient Ancestry report is similar to the European Ancestry report, but broader. This report uses an algorithm developed by a team led by Stanford University Professor and MacArthur Fellow, Carlos D. Bustamante, to provide insights into an individual’s ancient ancestry.
Based on thousands of ancient and modern human DNA samples, the report identifies ancestral proportions related to various historical groups such as Hunter-gatherers, First Farmers, Indigenous Americans, as well as African and Asian populations. This analysis places an individual’s genetic background within a historical context, focusing on connections to ancient populations rather than modern ones.
In addition to quantitative data, the report offers rich textual content and illustrations to create a more vivid and tangible connection to one’s ancient lineage. This approach aims to bring the story of an individual’s ancestry to life, going beyond mere percentages to offer a deeper understanding of their genetic heritage.
Ancient Bloodlines
The service allows individuals to compare their DNA against ancient archaeological samples, enabling them to trace their origins across different epochs. It allows discovering connections between users and famous historical figures or groups, such as Scandinavian Vikings, Belgian Cavemen, and Ancient Greeks. This comparison aims to map out a user’s ancestral lineage over various historical periods.
Viking Ancestry
The “Viking Index” measures an individual’s genetic relation to the ancient Scandinavians who lived around 1,000 years ago. The Vikings are known for their widespread migrations and raids. This index quantifies the genetic differences between a modern individual and these historical figures. Utilizing a Viking DNA test offers an intriguing way to uncover one’s heritage, revealing potential genetic links to Vikings that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The Genomelink Viking index and DNA match results are derived from the analysis of ancient DNA samples obtained from 442 human remains excavated at various archaeological sites across Europe and Greenland. These samples, which date back to the Viking era, have been meticulously sequenced by researchers to provide a comprehensive genetic basis for the Viking index calculations.
Neanderthal Ancestry
The influence of Neanderthals on modern humans is an ongoing topic of interest, particularly in how they have impacted aspects such as circadian rhythms, immune system functions, and potentially physical build. This legacy underscores the evolutionary significance of these ancient ancestors in shaping various characteristics of the contemporary human species.
In contrast to the uniform Neanderthal ancestry found in modern humans, research indicates that Denisovan ancestry in contemporary populations stems from multiple different Denisovan groups rather than a single one. This finding highlights a more varied integration of Denisovan genetic material in modern humans.
Genomelink covers both ancient ancestors in their report.
Genomelink Nutrition Advice Report
The Genomelink Nutrition Advice Report uses an individual’s genetic profile to ascertain optimal levels of key micronutrients, recommending a DNA-based diet for enhanced health. The report combines genetic data with information from a nutrition questionnaire to identify potential nutrient deficiencies and make tailored dietary suggestions.
By understanding how specific foods impact an individual based on their genetic makeup, the DNA nutrition test aids in addressing dietary challenges, such as unmet weight or fitness goals and digestive issues, potentially allowing for a more enjoyable and effective diet.
Genomelink Fitness Advice Report
The company has partnered with sports genetics experts to integrate the latest scientific research and applications into fitness. The Genomelink Fitness Advice Report aims to provide individuals with insights into genetic traits relevant to their fitness, updating information in line with new expert findings.
Genomelink Skincare Report
Collaborating with dermatology experts, the Skincare report offers personalized skincare advice, tailoring recommendations to suit each individual’s unique skin type as informed by their genetic analysis.
The traits are divided into the following categories:
- Texture, elasticity, and firmness
- Sensitivity
- Inflammations
- Moisture level
- Pigmentation
- Sun sensitivity
Each report contains three sections: Summary, Trait In-depth, and Personalized Skincare Advice.
Genomelink Mental Wellbeing Report
Gaining a deeper understanding of one’s mental health can present challenges, yet it plays a crucial role in enhancing self-support. Increased knowledge in this area typically leads to a broader range of options and greater precision in mental health care.
The report covers the following traits:
- Self Esteem
- Anger
- Depression
- Social Rejection
- Optimism
- Anxiety
- Happiness
- Resilience
- Seasonal Mood Swings
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
The report is divided into three sections:
- Traits in-depth
The section provides comprehensive details about each trait, including information on the associated genes and genetic variations.
- Roadmap for Awareness
- Colors and you
Users can receive a personalized color representation that reflects their genetic mental well-being, offering a unique visual interpretation of their genetic data concerning mental health.
Genomelink Organ Wellness Report
This report covers general wellness and includes Mood (Chronic Fatigue, Headache, Migraines), Digestion (3 traits), System (Heart Health, Hyperthyroidism, Inflammation), and the Genitourinary system (4 traits).
Genomelink Joint/Blood Report
This report covers aspects of your health such as pain, joint inflammation, gout, blood sugar, blood pressure, and heart health.
Personality Report
The Personality report is based on a theory that individuals possess a distinct blend of five generalized traits: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extroversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism. These traits are believed to significantly impact various aspects of a person’s life, including career suitability.
Political Report
The concept of a political DNA test raises whether genetic factors could influence political leanings. While political views are often deeply held and influence personal relationships, the notion of predicting them through DNA can be unsettling for some. However, understanding the genetic underpinnings of political perspectives could offer clearer insights across political divides.
Recognizing genetic influences in shaping political viewpoints might lead to more civil discussions and less emphasis on changing others’ opinions. Genomelink Political report is based on the understanding that comprehensive DNA analysis could provide a deeper understanding of one’s political leanings, encompassing economic and political preferences.
Scientific Integrity
The company’s genetic testing results are anchored in ongoing genomics research. Dr. Carlos D. Bustamante, the head of science advisory, is renowned for his work in applying genomics and data science across various fields. The research team has reviewed over 10,000 genetics studies to develop a robust database and algorithm for accurate DNA testing. They continuously update their methodologies in line with the latest genomics advancements. The company’s efforts are supported by notable institutions in genetic science and technology, including Stanford and UC Berkeley, and by the technology accelerator Y Combinator.
XGMix Tool
Genomelink uses the XGMix tool for many of its ancestry report analyses. XGMix uses a sophisticated combination of machine learning models to analyze genetic data at various points along each chromosome, providing detailed estimates of an individual’s local ancestry with probabilities for each classification.
It’s specifically designed for analyzing genetic information and includes pre-trained models for each chromosome. The process involves two layers of gradient-boosted trees (a form of decision tree used in machine learning):
- Genomic Window-Specific Layer: This first layer consists of multiple parallel XGBoost trees that provide an initial estimation of ancestry at different sections of the chromosome.
- Window Aggregating Smoother: The initial estimates are then processed by another unique XGBoost model. This model uses a sliding window approach to refine and output the final ancestry estimates.
Family Search
Genomelink offers access to one of the world’s largest genealogy records databases, positioning itself as a leading tool in family history research. The platform is utilized by over 1 million people globally, who leverage its extensive resources to delve into their family histories.
How to Get Started
It is simple to get started with Genomelink:
- Export your DNA raw data from 23andMe, Ancestry.com, or MyHeritage.
- Sign up with Genomelink (select free or unlimited version), and upload your raw data.
- Unlock your reports
Pricing
Genomelink offers two plans.
Free Traits Plan
- Users gain instant access to reports on 50 traits upon signing up. As they continue using the service over the first few weeks, 50 more traits are gradually unlocked, providing further insights into various genetic characteristics.
- Option to compare traits with one selected person.
Unlimited Plan ($14/month)
- Immediate access to 352+ trait reports.
- Weekly email featuring Genomelink’s latest “Discovery Trait” based on recent science and research.
- Capability to compare traits with up to five people.
Privacy Policy
Genomelink emphasizes user ownership and control over their DNA data, ensuring:
- HIPAA-grade Security: Their server complies with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), setting federal-level standards for protecting health information.
- Data Usage Policy: Users’ DNA data is not used or sold without explicit opt-in consent from the user.
Data Deletion Option: Users can delete their data from Genomelink’s server anytime, reflecting the company’s commitment to respecting and supporting user data ownership.
Alternative To Genomelink: Why LifeDNA?
LifeDNA has emerged as a prominent option for analyzing 23andMe and many other sources of raw data, owing to a combination of unique offerings and a commitment to personalized wellness.
We offer a basic DNA raw data analysis package to kickstart your journey. Users with raw data from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, etc., can access 120+ traits across interests such as Nutrition, Wellness, Vitamins and Supplements, Personality, Fitness, Sleep, Methylation, and Skincare.
Here is why many regard LifeDNA as the best option for making the most of your 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and other raw data:
- Holistic Approach to Wellness: Unlike many other platforms that focus strictly on health-related risks or ancestry, LifeDNA adopts a holistic approach. We analyze genetic data to offer personalized optimizations for nutrition (including a customized grocery list!), skin care, vitamins & supplements, wellness, personality & cognition, and fitness. This range lets users get a complete picture of their wellness needs based on their DNA.
- Product Recommendations: We go beyond just providing insights. We offer specific product recommendations, skincare ingredients, or supplements tailored to an individual’s genetic profile. It makes our service actionable, allowing users to make immediate changes based on their results.
- Data Security: At LifeDNA, we place a high emphasis on protecting user data. Our commitment to privacy ensures that users can trust the platform with their sensitive genetic information.
- User-Friendly Reports: LifeDNA reports are easy to interpret. Our reports are designed to be accessible to the layperson without compromising on the depth and accuracy of the information.
- Continual Updates: As genetic research evolves, so does LifeDNA’s platform. Users can expect their reports and insights to be updated with the latest scientific findings.
- Dedicated Research and Development: At LifeDNA, we invest in research to continually refine our algorithms, ensuring that the insights provided are based on cutting-edge science.
- Educational Resources: LifeDNA also provides ample resources for users to understand their genetic makeup better. This education-first approach demystifies the complex world of genetics, making it approachable and actionable for everyone.
- Scientific rigor: To create an unmatched commitment to scientific rigor, LifeDNA partners with CLIA-certified, CAP-accredited, and HIPAA-compliant laboratories.
Further, if you do not have raw DNA data, such as from 23andMe, LifeDNA provides that too. Start your personalized wellness journey with LifeDNA’s state-of-the-art DNA kits here.
Customer Reviews
*LifeDNA is not associated with the above company.
*Understanding your genetics can offer valuable insights into your well-being, but it is not deterministic. Your traits can be influenced by the complex interplay involving nature, lifestyle, family history, and others.
Our reports have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents on our website and our reports are for informational purposes only, and are not intended to diagnose any medical condition, replace the advice of a healthcare professional, or provide any medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with a healthcare professional before making any major lifestyle changes or if you have any other concerns about your results. The testimonials featured may have used more than one LifeDNA or LifeDNA vendors’ product or reports.
