Genetic testing is rapidly becoming an affordable way for people to learn about their health as encoded into their DNA, but 'BabyGlimpse,' a new product being offered by genetic testing company HumanCode, provides genetic testing for the hypothetical children that couples might have in the future. The feature, which can be accessed through an app, gives predictions for the genetic traits of offspring based on the genetic samples that it receives from prospective parents.
To be sure, nothing is guaranteed as far as BabyGlimpse's predictions are concerned. It takes saliva samples from both parents and sequences them, so it's indeed based on science, but there's no way to be completely accurate when dealing with a non-existent child. Should both parents have very apparent dominant and recessive genes, it will be able to make accurate predictions, however.
Genetic Trait-Tracking Apps
HumanCode's 'BabyGlimpse' Predicts the Traits Future Children Inherit
Trend Themes
1. Genetic Trait-tracking Apps - The rise of genetic trait-tracking apps with the capability of predicting the genetic traits of future offspring offers ample opportunities for genetic testing companies to innovate and develop accurate and affordable tools for consumer use.
2. DNA Sequencing Technology - The continued growth of DNA sequencing technology presents innovative opportunities for genetic testing companies to enhance their genetic trait predictive accuracy and deliver more personalized nutrition and health advice based on DNA analytics.
3. Genetic Counseling Services - The proliferation of companies like HumanCode putting DNA analytics in the hands of consumers underscores the urgent need for genetic counseling services that can advise people on interpreting their test results and coping with the consequences of such information.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare Industry - The healthcare industry can leverage genetic trait-tracking apps like BabyGlimpse to develop predictive models that can help doctors offer personalized and more effective healthcare interventions for patients, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
2. Consumer Genetics Industry - Companies in the consumer genetics industry can leverage advances in DNA sequencing technology to innovate and improve the accuracy of their genetic trait prediction tools, making them more competitive and useful for consumers.
3. Genetic Counseling Industry - The emergence of genetic trait-tracking apps and consumer genetics companies underscores the growing demand for genetic counseling services, presenting opportunities for professionals in this space to develop more effective counseling strategies and tools for consumers.