What's happened
On June 14, 2025, TTAM Research Institute, led by Anne Wojcicki, made a $305 million bid to acquire 23andMe, surpassing Regeneron's previous offer. The acquisition aims to uphold customer privacy policies amid ongoing legal challenges, including a lawsuit from state attorneys general.
What's behind the headline?
Key Insights
- Privacy Concerns: The acquisition by TTAM promises to maintain 23andMe's privacy policies, which is crucial given the company's history of data breaches. This could help regain consumer trust.
- Legal Hurdles: The deal faces scrutiny from a coalition of state attorneys general, led by New York's Letitia James, who argue that the sale of genetic data without consent is unacceptable. This legal challenge could delay or derail the acquisition.
- Market Dynamics: The bidding war highlights the competitive landscape in the biotech sector, particularly for companies with valuable genetic data. TTAM's bid reflects a strategic move to leverage 23andMe's assets while addressing privacy concerns.
- Future Implications: If the acquisition proceeds, it could set a precedent for how genetic data is handled in the industry, influencing regulations and consumer expectations moving forward.
What the papers say
According to TechCrunch, TTAM's bid of $305 million was made after Regeneron initially offered $256 million for 23andMe. Wojcicki expressed her commitment to continuing the company's mission on LinkedIn. Bloomberg noted that if TTAM fails to finalize the sale, Regeneron would acquire the assets instead. The NY Post highlighted the challenges 23andMe faces, including dwindling demand and the fallout from a 2023 data breach, which has significantly impacted its reputation and business viability.
How we got here
23andMe filed for bankruptcy in March 2025 following a significant cyberattack in 2023 and a decline in consumer demand. Regeneron initially agreed to acquire the company for $256 million before TTAM's higher bid emerged.
Go deeper
- What are the implications of the lawsuit against the acquisition?
- How will TTAM ensure customer privacy after the acquisition?
- What led to 23andMe's bankruptcy filing?
Common question
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What Does TTAM's Acquisition of 23andMe Mean for Consumers?
On June 14, 2025, TTAM Research Institute announced its acquisition of 23andMe for $305 million, raising questions about the future of genetic testing and consumer privacy. This significant move follows a tumultuous period for 23andMe, including a bankruptcy filing and a data breach. Here are some common questions surrounding this acquisition and its implications.
More on these topics
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Anne E. Wojcicki ( woo-CHITS-kee; born July 28, 1973) is an American entrepreneur. She is known for co-founding the personal genomics company 23andMe.
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23andMe Holding Co. is an American personal genomics and biotechnology company based in South San Francisco, California. It is best known for providing a direct-to-consumer genetic testing service in which customers provide a saliva sample that is laborat
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.