Co-founder leaves Google-backed DNA testing startup 23andMe to launch Alzheimer’s foundation
By APFriday, September 4, 2009
Co-founder leaves Google-backed DNA test startup
SAN FRANCISCO — The direct-to-consumer genetic testing startup backed by Google Inc. is losing its co-founder months after the search giant upped its investment.
Mountain View-based 23andMe Inc. announced Friday that Linda Avey is leaving to start an Alzheimer’s research foundation.
Avey launched 23andMe in 2006 with Anne Wojcicki, wife of Google co-founder Sergey Brin. The company analyzes people’s DNA to detect potential health problems before they occur.
Since then, Google has invested $7 million in the company, including $2.6 million in June. Brin himself has invested about $10 million of his personal fortune.
Avey and Wojcicki said that the foundation would use 23andMe’s research technology to test its own patients as they seek Alzheimer’s genetic roots.
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February 10, 2010: 12:57 am
Any research that provides additional insight into Alzheimer’s is critical to finding a cure. It is also important for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s to consider participating in clinical studies. One such study is the ICARA Study (www.icarastudy.com), whose goal is to explore if an investigational drug, called Bapineuzumab, can help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease. Clinical studies that test new treatments are the best chance we have for fighting this disease. |
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