May 16 2012
Quiz Answers: Heritability Demystified
Congratulations to Monica P., the winner of our heritability quiz! Read on for the answers and to learn more about what we can say about nature vs. nurture.
Archive for the 'genetics 101' Category
May 15 2012
Getting a Handle on Women’s Fertility
Although the majority of respondents to 23andMe’s Female Fertility survey stated that they weren’t trying to conceive the first time they became pregnant, around 13% said that they had tried or were currently trying to become pregnant, a percentage that’s on par with the national infertility average of 10-15%. Infertility is defined as not being [...]
May 14 2012
From Menarche to Menopause
Two universal milestones in a woman’s life are menarche, the first menstrual period in girls, and menopause, when menstruation stops. Research suggests that the age at which menarche and menopause occur is about 50% influenced by genetics.
May 05 2012
Zero in on Mexican Ancestry on Cinco de Mayo
Today is Cinco de Mayo. This day commemorates the Mexican army’s 1862 victory over France in the Battle of Puebla (not Mexican independence day as is commonly believed), but is more widely observed in the United States as a celebration of Mexican heritage and pride. There are different ways to celebrate Mexican culture — fiestas [...]
Apr 20 2012
Genetic Similarities of Mice and Men
23andMe celebrates genetic diversity but today we’d like to celebrate our genetic similarities — to other organisms.
Apr 20 2012
DNA Day: Educate and Celebrate
We at 23andMe have a special place in our hearts for National DNA Day, and we’re teaming up with the Khan Academy to celebrate!
Apr 17 2012
Ancestral Traits
Just as jazz greats Harry Connick Jr. and Brandon Marsalis wondered, in the first segment of the PBS series Finding Your Roots, whether they had musical ancestors, you too might wonder where you got your penchant for painting or your bright blue eyes. Perhaps that trait you share with someone in your family tree comes from a little shared DNA.
Feb 23 2012
Did You Know? Genetic Research Lags for African Americans
Although there has been a recent boom in DNA research, little is known about the connection between DNA and disease in African Americans. Since discoveries made in one population aren’t always applicable to other ancestral groups, it is important to carry out additional research. Bridging the gap in research is particularly important for diseases that affect African Americans more than the rest of the population.
Feb 22 2012
Did You Know? Ancestry is Not So Black and White
Data from the 2010 census showed that about 13% of people living in the United States self-identify as African American, but from a genetic point of view, ethnicity isn’t so black and white. Most African Americans have genetic ancestry tracing back to both Africa and Europe and many Americans who consider themselves of completely European descent may actually have some African ancestry as well.
Feb 14 2012
Did You Know? One in Twelve African Americans has Sickle Cell Trait
In the United States alone, about 100,000 people have sickle cell disease and roughly one in 500 black or African-American babies is born with it. The genetic mutation underlying this condition causes red blood cells to take on a “sickle” shape, which makes it harder to deliver oxygen to certain parts of the body. But why would a mutation that causes a harmful disease survive through evolution to the high frequency with which we observe it today?
