User:Mirkobuholzer/Genos (Company)

Genos offers next-generation DNA sequencing services to consumers, specifically whole exome sequencing and interactive tools for personal discovery. Based in San Francisco, Genos is a spin-off of Complete Genomics and was founded in 2016.

Company History
Genos was spun out of Complete Genomics, a leading next generation sequencing company, and completed a private venture-backed financing in May 2016. The team includes expertise across the healthcare, technology, bioinformatics and consumer space.

Products and services
Genos is currently (as of August 2016) offering its sequencing service as a beta program.


 * The service provides high-quality whole exome sequencing, CLIA, 75x on-target coverage. The exome is defined as the protein coding regions of the genome and represents the most functional and relevant parts of the genome, including at least 80% of all known disease variants.
 * The solution consists of interactive tools including a browsable map of a user’s genome and personalized summaries of associated conditions and unique genetic variations.
 * The user is able to download the raw data as a VCF file and port data to other providers for further analysis
 * The service provides access to a network of certified genetic counselors to guide users through their data

Users order a DNA kit for exome sequencing the Genos website. Users provide a small saliva sample and mail the DNA kit back to Genos. Genos conducts the 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. A major difference between Genos and other genomics companies is the focus on next generation sequencing and the amount of data sequenced. Genos whole exome sequencing covers over 50 times the data of other common consumer genomics offerings (Genos sequences 50 million base pairs compared to the ~1 million or less typical of microarray based providers).

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.

Philosophy on Data Ownership
Genos’ core principle is that users own and control their own data and that such data is never shared without their consent. Genos believes participants should have the ability to use their data as they choose - their DNA is inherently theirs, and should not belong to any company. Consistent with this principle, Genos allows users to export their sequenced data so that they can port their data to other providers.