Should a pre-nup include a cheek swab?

Perhaps yes, now that the era of personal genomics is upon us.

Yesterday's Financial Times (FT) story by Clive Cookson described how the new "DeCodeMe" service from DeCode Genetics will provide an extensive look at a person's DNA for under $1,000.

Dr. Kari Stefansson, DeCode's CEO, "... conceded the system could be abused: for example, by a subscriber who obtained someone else's DNA by deception and then sent it in as his or her own. 'If you want to commit a crime, there is nothing we can do to stop you,' he said."

Huh.

Here's the FT article.

DNA test brings personal genome closer

The era of personal genomics came a step closer on Friday with the launch of the first commercial service to give people an extensive look at their own DNA for less than $1,000.

DeCode Genetics, based in Iceland, said its “DeCodeMe” service would tell subscribers whether they had genetic variants associated with many common diseases, as well as their ancestry and non-medical traits such as susceptibility to baldness.

Although personal DNA testing has been available for several years, it has focused on a few genes. DeCode, in contrast, tests more than 1m genetic variants. But the Icelandic company, which has a strong record of discovering disease-causing genes, will not have the field of large-scale genetic testing to itself.

Several competitors, including Californian start-ups 23andMe and Navigenics, are about to provide similar services.

For a $985 (€672, £480) subscription, customers will send in a cheek swab to DeCode. A few weeks later they will be able to navigate around a password-controlled website to find out as much personal information as they want. The service will be available in Europe and North America.

“We will include all the common diseases, including Alzheimer’s,” said Kari Stefansson, DeCode chief executive. “If, as a competent adult, you choose to look at your risk of developing Alzheimer’s, that is your prerogative. But no one will force you to look at your Alzheimer’s risk if you do not want to.”

Dr Stefansson conceded the system could be abused: for example, by a subscriber who obtained someone else’s DNA by deception and then sent it in as his or her own. “If you want to commit a crime, there is nothing we can do to stop you,” he said.

Apart from concerns over privacy and the potential abuse of genetic data, some critics of genomic testing say there is not yet enough scientific knowledge linking genetic variations to disease. Craig Venter, the DNA sequencing pioneer who has analysed his whole genome in great detail, said he had found little useful information about his own health.

Dr Stefansson maintains there is a strong scientific foundation, which people can use to alter their own lifestyle in response to genetic risks. But subscribers might use the service for enjoyment as much as for health planning, he said. “You have the opportunity to engage in a fun and interesting exchange when you compare your results to those of your friends.”