Much of the decades of scientific research in human biology has focused on providing products delivered directly to consumers. There is a wide range of products ranging from consumer goods to services. Drugs, biomarkers, medical assessments and research are common examples of such products. However, their development is a lengthy process that usually takes several years. For example, a drug that is typically selected from thousands of candidates takes, on average, up to 12 years and $2.6 billion to get from the bench to the pharmacy cabinet [1].
In addition to vital medicines and services now considered necessary for our health and survival, there have been many biotechnological advances that have made other products and services available to consumers. Over time, the private sector started marketing these early on. Furthermore, the focus has been not only on providing personalized medicine, but also on personalized products delivered directly to the consumer.
Companies offering epigenetic products and services
Following the completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003 and the advent of next-generation sequencing, several companies have begun offering DNA genetic testing and analysis. Companies like 23andMe and LivingDNA offer their customers the opportunity to gain many insights from their DNA [2,3]. Depending on the company, you can provide saliva or a simple swab and receive an analysis in less than two months. By analyzing the DNA variants and epigenetic marks that make each profile unique, these companies provide reports that include genetic and regional ancestry, family DNA matching, character traits, and even the likelihood of developing health conditions [2,3]. The genetic data is analyzed and personalized reports are created based on scientific and medical research [2].
Although not many epigenetic services are yet available directly to consumers, there are already some and some will be available soon. Combining artificial intelligence and epigenetic research for better human health is the goal of Foxo Technologies - a life insurance company based on molecular biotechnology [4]. As numerous scientific findings show, epigenetic changes play an important role in human health, well-being and aging. Therefore, Foxo Technologies is focused on the discovery, validation and commercialization of epigenetic biomarkers in blood and saliva [4]. These epigenetic biomarkers are identified using supervised machine learning. Areas the company focuses on include diabetes, cardiovascular disease, alcohol and tobacco use, and molecular age [4]. The company is committed to developing new innovative products and services designed to improve consumers' health, well-being and longevity, and its motto is: "Life Insurance That Keeps You Alive" [4]
Another example is EpigenCare, a biotechnology company for personalized skin care based on epigenetic testing [5]. Using a special kit, DNA samples are taken from the skin and sent for analysis. The company creates an epigenetic profile of the customer's skin quality by measuring DNA methylation of various genes responsible for skin quality factors (e.g. aging, firmness, moisture and elasticity) [5]. After the skin profile is created, it is algorithmically matched - through machine learning - with the most suitable skin care products on the market [5]. The matching process takes into account the ingredients' epigenetic, hazardous and absorbing effects on skin quality indicators and personalizes skin care routines [5].
As we advance faster and faster in the field of epigenetics, we offer our services MoleQlar Analytics also for private individuals. Through joint research, we contribute to the development of new epigenetic drugs and biomarkers that pave the way to personalized medicine. We believe that various epigenetic products and services will be available to individual consumers sooner rather than later.
