Bankrupt 23andMe Nears Sale to Regeneron, Genetic Data Transfer Expected

Biotech company Regeneron Pharmaceuticals is acquiring bankrupt genetic testing firm 23andMe for $256 million, including its genetic data from approximately 15 million customers, its personal genome services, and related business infrastructure. Regeneron plans to continue 23andMe's consumer DNA testing operations while leveraging the extensive genetic data for large-scale genetics research aimed at developing new medical treatments. The acquisition excludes 23andMe's telehealth division, Lemonaid Health, which will be shut down. Both companies have committed to upholding existing privacy policies and legal protections, with Regeneron working alongside a court-appointed privacy ombudsman to address data security and ethical concerns. The deal, pending approval by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, also ensures employment continuity for most 23andMe staff and reflects Regeneron's experience handling genetic data from millions of individuals. This acquisition raises ongoing debates about consumer data privacy, given the sensitive nature of genetic information and the less stringent protections under consumer privacy laws compared to traditional medical records.