Frequently asked questions

What is MyDNABank?

MyDNABank provides consent and access infrastructure for genomic data. Individuals manage research choices, laboratories contribute services and eligible datasets, and research partners seek approved access. Participating laboratories perform sequencing and laboratory testing.

Who is MyDNABank for?

Individuals managing their genomic information, laboratories and biobanks holding genomic datasets, and pharma, biotech and contract research organisations (CROs) seeking approved research access.

Who controls the genomic data?

Individuals manage their research permissions. Laboratories and biobanks retain their agreed approval roles for the datasets they hold. MyDNABank connects recorded permissions with access decisions. Each request must respect participant rights, institutional authority and restrictions attached to the data.

How does research access work?

A research partner submits a defined request. The approval process checks its purpose against recorded permissions, applicable legal requirements and institutional restrictions. Approved analysis takes place within a Trusted Research Environment, a controlled space for working with sensitive data. Only reviewed, permitted outputs are released.

What would I use MyDNABank for?

MyDNABank gives you a place to manage your genomic information and research choices through your account. You choose whether to permit research and manage those permissions alongside the services you use.

What makes MyDNABank different from other genomic services?

Our focus is ongoing control over research permissions, beyond a single test or report. MyDNABank keeps your genomic information connected to your choices through your account.

Our consent layer links those choices with approved research access. You decide whether to participate and manage permission changes after your test. Participating laboratories perform sequencing. MyDNABank manages the customer journey and data-permission services.

Why keep my genomic information?

Scientific understanding develops over time. Existing genomic information sometimes supports new analysis without another sample or test. Keeping a usable copy helps you assess future services and research opportunities suited to your choices. Suitability depends on the original test, file quality and the proposed analysis.

Do I need another DNA test?

Not necessarily. An existing DNA file is suitable when its format and coverage meet the requirements of your chosen service. Confirm compatibility before ordering another test. Where a new test is needed, a participating laboratory performs the sequencing.

How do I check whether my DNA file is supported?

Check the supported-file guidance in your account. If your provider or format is unclear, contact hello@mydnabank.io with the provider name and file type. Please leave DNA files and medical records out of your email.

Does uploading my DNA enrol me in research?

No. Uploading your data and agreeing to research are separate choices. You decide whether to permit research. Each project also needs the relevant institutional approvals. Joining the waiting list does not enrol you in research.

Who sees my genomic information?

Authorised personnel and service providers access the information needed to deliver your chosen services. For research, access also depends on your recorded permissions and the project's approval conditions.

Approved researchers work within a Trusted Research Environment, a controlled space for analysing sensitive data. Only reviewed, permitted outputs leave the environment. Researchers do not receive unrestricted downloads of your genomic file.

How do I change my research permissions?

Sign in to your MyDNABank account and open your consent settings. Update your choices or opt out by removing permission. The consent layer records your change and blocks new research access covered by the withdrawn permission.

If a study relies on your consent to use your personal data, the affected use must stop when you withdraw. Some existing studies have a separate lawful basis for continued use of previously collected data. The applicable basis and withdrawal limits must be established and explained before participation.

How do I request a copy of my data, deletion or account closure?

Contact hello@mydnabank.io with your request. We explain the records covered, any identity checks needed and any lawful retention requirements. Where a laboratory or research institution holds separate records, we explain the relevant responsibilities.

Restrictions on researcher downloads do not remove your applicable rights to access your own personal data. Account closure, deletion and research withdrawal are separate requests.

Does MyDNABank diagnose health conditions?

No. MyDNABank provides genomic-data and consent services. Participating laboratories perform testing. A qualified healthcare professional should explain diagnosis, treatment and the medical meaning of your results. Any testing or interpretation service has its own scope and limitations.

How do I get started?

Join the waiting list for service updates. If you already have an account, follow the available service and file-upload guidance. Review the relevant permissions before submitting genomic information.