Regeneron Pharmaceuticals is buying 23andMe for $256 million after the consumer genetics company filed for bankruptcy. Once valued at $6 billion, 23andMe now finds a new home with Regeneron, a major player in drug research.
What’s Happening & Why This Matters
Regeneron pledges to keep 23andMe’s consumer DNA testing services running without interruption. This means over 15 million users can continue accessing their genetic reports while benefiting from Regeneron’s privacy and data security expertise.
The acquisition highlights a shift where consumer genetic data could play a bigger role in drug development and personalized medicine, provided customers consent. Users worried about privacy can opt out or delete their data.
A New Commitment and Vision
Regeneron co-founder George Yancopoulos assures 23andMe users that their genetic data will be safeguarded under Regeneron’s high standards. The company has a strong track record with the Regeneron Genetics Center for secure and ethical data handling.
Regeneron’s core business includes treatments for age-related blindness, arthritis, and colorectal cancer. The firm also developed a widely reported COVID-19 antibody cocktail to treat former President Trump.
By acquiring 23andMe, Regeneron aims to build on its mission to empower people to understand their DNA and improve personal health. At the same time, Regeneron intends to leverage this data for large-scale genetic research to enhance disease treatment and prevention.
What’s Changing. What’s Not
Regeneron will buy all of 23andMe’s assets except for the Lemonaid Health telehealth service, which will be discontinued.
A court-appointed Consumer Privacy Ombudsman will review the deal before final approval, expected by June 2025. The transaction is set to close in the third quarter of 2025.
Users should note that their privacy rights remain intact. Opting out of data sharing is possible through the 23andMe account settings. Some users have already deleted their data due to privacy concerns.
TF Summary: What’s Next
The Regeneron acquisition secures 23andMe’s future and promises uninterrupted service for millions of users. This deal signals a closer fusion of consumer genetics and pharmaceutical innovation.
Privacy will remain a priority as the company furthers its genetic research. As Regeneron integrates 23andMe’s platform into its mission, expect clearer policies and possibly new personalized health insights.
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