Explore the fascinating world of genetics
Discover The Power
Tucked away in nearly every cell of your body is an incredible biological machine. It's custom built, runs on an operating system unique to you, and powers your existence - it's your DNA!
The Mighty Molecule
What is DNA?
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is your body's unique blueprint, a complex molecule that holds the instructions for building and operating you. This genetic code, composed of just four letters – A, T, C, and G – determines everything from the color of your eyes to your immune system's defenses.
Where does DNA come from?
DNA is inherited from our parents - half from mom and half from dad. The process of inheriting DNA is complex, but the result is a one-of-a-kind combination that makes you, you! This is also why children often resemble their parents and siblings, inheriting a mix of their physical and genetic traits from mom and dad.
DNA's Iconic Structure
DNA's instantly recognizable shape is a double helix, resembling a twisted ladder. The sides of the ladder are made of alternating sugar and phosphate molecules, while the rungs of the ladder are made of pairs of nitrogenous bases: adenine (A) always paired with thymine (T), and cytosine (C) always paired with guanine (G). The unique sequence of the bases in your DNA determines your genetic code. This code provides the instructions for your body's development and functions.
DNA FUN FACTS
Did You Know?
The human genome consists of approximately 3 billion base pairs of DNA.
DNA is found in all living organisms, from bacteria to humans.
If you stretched out all the DNA in a single human cell, it would be about 2 meters (~6.5 feet) long!
Understanding your DNA
Thanks to advancements in science and technology, gaining a deeper understanding of your genetic makeup is not only possible but also more accessible than ever. DNA testing is a powerful tool for self-discovery that can provide valuable insights, empowering you to make informed choices that could positively impact your overall health and well-being.
More than meets the eye
DNA's Influence
DNA's influence extends far beyond our physical traits and characteristics. It plays a role in various aspects of overall health and wellbeing, like:
Nutrition & Sleep
Disease Risk & Inherited Disorders
Responses to Medication
Bone density & muscle mass
Gene Expression & Regulation
It's important to remember, while DNA plays a significant role, it's not the only factor that determines our health and wellbeing. Environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and other influences also contribute.

Benefits of DNA & Genomic Testing
Available For All Ages
Empowers Early Intervention
Enables Personalized Health Plan
Informs Lifestyle Changes
Identifies Drug Sensitivities

Are all DNA tests the same?
DNA tests are not all the same. Different DNA tests can reveal different aspects of an individual's genetic profile. They offer unique insights to guide health management strategies, lifestyle choices, and potential medical decisions.
Certain tests can analyze a targeted gene or set of genes to provide more detailed information about an individual's risk for specific health conditions, like hereditary cancers, or focus on specific genes that influence aspects of your health and wellness, like how efficient your body is at burning fat, while a test like whole genome sequencing captures a person's entire genome (all 22,000 genes!) and can provide information on potential disease-causing variants, medically actionable genes, carrier screening, and drug sensitivities. DNA tests can differ in ways, including:
• Purpose of the test: Health, ancestry, carrier screening
• Scope of analysis: How much DNA is analyzed specific gene or region of DNA
• Type of sample tested: Saliva, cheek swab, cord blood
• Testing Technology: Microarray or sequencing, for example
DNA & Genomic Resources
Knowledge is Power
Dive deeper with these informational resources designed to spark your curiosity.