DNA.Land was a nonprofit, academic research project that allowed users to upload their raw DNA data for analysis. It operated out of Columbia University and the New York Genome Center. The primary purpose of the platform was to use crowdsourced genetic information for scientific studies, offering users free reports in exchange for their participation in research. The project started in 2015 and grew to include over 150,000 members before its closure.
The DNA.Land Model
DNA.Land distinguished itself from commercial genetic testing companies by not selling DNA kits, instead functioning as a third-party analysis tool. Users who had already tested with services like 23andMe or AncestryDNA could upload their raw genetic data to the platform at no cost. This model provided a resource for individuals seeking a second opinion on their genetic makeup without paying for another test.
In return for uploading their data, participants received several reports. These included an ancestry composition analysis, predictions for various physical and wellness traits based on their genetic markers, and a relative matching feature. The platform allowed users to find and connect with genetic relatives who had also uploaded their data.
A core component of the model was its focus on research. When users uploaded their data, they went through a consent process authorizing scientists to use their anonymized genetic information for scientific discovery. This approach advanced research in various areas, including a partnership with the National Breast Cancer Coalition to study the genetics of breast cancer.
The Shutdown and Data Deletion
The academic version of DNA.Land ceased operations in late 2019. The shutdown was prompted by the departure of the principal investigators from Columbia University and the New York Genome Center. As the project was tied to these institutions, the research study could not continue under its existing structure.
Following the closure, the project leaders stated that because the academic study was ending, all accounts and associated data would be permanently deleted. This measure was taken to protect user privacy and adhere to the original research consent. It ensured that data provided for an academic purpose would not be used in a different context without new consent.
All user data was scheduled to be erased on September 30, 2019. The team planned to relaunch DNA.Land as a commercial entity, separate from its university affiliations, on October 1, 2019. They clarified that no data from the original project would be transferred to the new company, and users wishing to join would need to create a new account and re-upload their files.
DNA.Land’s Legacy and Modern Alternatives
DNA.Land left a mark on citizen science by demonstrating the power of a large-scale platform for genetic research. It showed that many individuals were willing to contribute their personal data to science when presented with a transparent platform. The project facilitated academic research and provided tools to the genetic genealogy community.
For those looking for similar services today, several alternatives exist for uploading raw DNA data. GEDmatch is a popular platform focused on genetic genealogy. It offers tools for chromosome analysis and relative matching, allowing users to compare their data across different testing company databases.
MyHeritage also allows users to upload raw DNA data from other services for free. While it is a commercial company, the upload feature provides access to its large database for relative matching and offers ethnicity estimates. Both platforms give users more avenues to explore their genetic heritage by leveraging data they already own.