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Google-Backed 23andMe Adds $11 Million In Funding

image23andMe, the Google-backed personalized genetics company, has raised $11 million worth of a $24.26 million second round, peHUB reports. The regulatory filing didn’t list the new investors; Genentech, New Enterprise Associates and Mohr Davidow Ventures (MDV) all joined Google (NSDQ: GOOG) as backers of the startup’s first round.

Founded by Anne Wojcicki (wife of Google co-founder Sergey Brin), 23andMe lets people explore their genetic makeup online; customers order a kit, mail in a saliva sample and can access their analysis (including details like health traits and ancestry) in about 6-8 weeks. The service costs about $400; competitors include Bioresolve and Navigenics.

23andMe recently got a major endorsement by being featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show, but there has been some controversy: both California and New York cracked down on the startup (and its rivals) last year, requiring proof of federal and state certification for genetic testing—and proof that the were only being conducted upon a physician’s permission (via TechCrunch). peHUB also cites a source that says MDV sold back its small stake in 23andMe once it invested in Navigenics; we’ve confirmed that MDV does have a stake in the rival genetics tech firm.

May 4, 2009 2:56 PM ET
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Posted In: Media & Publishing, Health Content, Money, M&A & Venture Capital, Venture Capital, Companies, Google, 23andme

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