Veritas Genetics

Veritas Genetics was established in 2014 as a pioneer in the personal genomics sector, co-founded by the renowned Harvard Medical School geneticist Dr. George Church, alongside Mirza Cifric, Preston Estep, and Jonathan Zhao. Dr. Church, a seminal figure in genomics who contributed to the Human Genome Project, brought his extensive research and vision to the company, aiming to make comprehensive genomic data accessible to the global population. Mirza Cifric, a serial entrepreneur in biotechnology who served as CEO, led the company's mission to drive global accessibility to genomic information. The company achieved a significant milestone by being the first to offer whole genome sequencing and interpretation for under $1,000, effectively breaking a major cost barrier in the industry.

The business operates on a direct-to-consumer and B2B model, providing genetic testing services to individuals, physicians, employers, and health plans. Revenue is generated through the sale of its genetic testing kits, with tiered pricing based on the depth of analysis. The company also establishes partnerships with medical institutions for bulk testing and collaborative research. In March 2022, Veritas Genetics and its international arm, Veritas Intercontinental, were acquired by LetsGetChecked, a global healthcare solutions company. This acquisition integrated Veritas's whole genome sequencing capabilities into LetsGetChecked's at-home diagnostic testing and virtual care infrastructure, aiming to turn genetic insights into practical, personalized healthcare recommendations.

Veritas Genetics' core offering is whole genome sequencing (WGS), which analyzes nearly 100% of an individual's DNA, a stark contrast to other technologies that examine less than 1%. Its flagship product, myGenome, provided consumers with insights into inherited genetic risks for conditions like cancer and cardiovascular diseases, carrier status for over 40 conditions, and pharmacogenomic data on drug sensitivities. The service required a physician's authorization to ensure results were interpreted within a proper clinical context, and the company offered genetic counseling to help customers understand their reports. Following the acquisition by LetsGetChecked, these services are being expanded to include targeted panels for cancer screening, carrier screening, maternal-fetal testing, and pharmacogenomics (PGx).

Keywords: whole genome sequencing, personal genomics, genetic testing, DNA analysis, preventative medicine, pharmacogenomics, direct-to-consumer healthcare, clinical genomics, virtual care, personalized healthcare