Research at Living DNA

Our research is the backbone of the detailed ancestry reports we bring you, but how do we take individual DNA data files and turn them into detailed ancestry reports for people all over the world?

Let’s explore the world of genetic science and how we ensure our research is robust, accurate, and beneficial for everyone.

Building our genetic database

At Living DNA, our research begins with building a comprehensive genetic database. This database is constructed mostly using genetic information from individual customers who opt in to participate in research. By analysing this data we can identify patterns and variations that help us better our understanding of human genetics.

Analysing the genetic data

Our fantastic scientists work closely with the rest of the Living DNA team. They use advanced techniques to analyse the data we receive. We focus on identifying Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), which are tiny variations in the DNA sequence. THese SNPs can tell us a lot of information about a person’s ancestry, fitness and nutritional predispositions, and unique genetic traits.

Collaborating with Uploaders

One of the most important parts of our research is collaborating with uploaders - individuals who have had their DNA tested elsewhere and chosen to upload their raw genetic data to our platform (click here for our blog about uploading to Living DNA). This additional data helps us to refine our algorithms and improve the accuracy of our reports.

Ensuring diversity in research

Our research methods are inspired by successful projects like People of the British Isles (PoBI). We prefer to use samples from people whose grandparents were all born close together, as this can enhance the accuracy of our regional ancestry insights. Don’t worry if your own grandparents are from further afield though, this isn’t essential for participation in our research.

Opting into research.

If you’re a Living DNA customer and would like to contribute to our research, you can easily opt in through your profile settings - we have a helpful article on our support centre to guide you through this. By doing so you’ll be helping us to improve the accuracy and depth of our genetic insights, benefiting not only yourself but the wider Living DNA community.

Your participation is crucial, as in order to provide our customers with more updates and enhanced reports, we need more data. By encouraging your friends and family to upload their data as well, you can help us to bring even more fantastic detail to our ancestry reports. To read more about the benefits of uploading your data, check out our last blog post here.

At Living DNA our mission is to uncover the stories written in our DNA and share them with you in the most meaningful and accurate way. We’re grateful to all our participants and uploaders who make this possible through their generous contributions to our research. Together we’re advancing the science of genetics and helping people everywhere to connect with their unique heritage.

Thank you for being a part of this exciting journey with us!