David Bridges
In a surprising turn of events, 23andMe founder and former CEO Anne Wojcicki is poised to reclaim control over the DNA company’s assets, as outlined in an official press release from 23andMe. Back in May, the company Regeneron acquired 23andMe for $256 million during a bankruptcy auction. However, Wojcicki’s nonprofit organization, TTAM Research Institute, has strategically reopened the bidding process with an unsolicited offer of $305 million, as reported by The Wall Street Journal.
A bankruptcy judge has consented to reinstate the bidding for 23andMe, contingent on Regeneron increasing its offer by at least $10 million compared to Wojcicki’s proposed amount, according to WSJ. Regeneron opted not to counter this offer, which would leave 23andMe under the management of TTAM, pending judicial approval of the agreement. A court hearing to evaluate this new arrangement is scheduled for June 17, 2025.
Previously, Regeneron had intentions to retain all employees of 23andMe and continue offering consumer DNA testing kits. In addition to providing customers with insights into their ancestry, the genetic data from 23andMe holds significant value for identifying potential health risks and serves as a critical tool in the drug discovery process for Regeneron.
While Wojcicki’s future plans remain somewhat ambiguous, the announcement from 23andMe details several customer data and privacy protections that TTAM Research Institute has committed to uphold. These include the ongoing ability for customers to delete their data, opt-out of research initiatives, the establishment of a Consumer Privacy Advocacy Board, and a pledge to refrain from selling or transferring genetic data in the event of another bankruptcy unless the acquiring party agrees to maintain the same stringent privacy standards.
Wojcicki’s strategy to retain control over 23andMe assets has been in motion since the company declared bankruptcy in March 2025. Initially, she stepped down as CEO to facilitate a bid on the company, reflecting her deep commitment to its future.
“I am ecstatic that TTAM Research Institute will be able to uphold the mission of 23andMe in assisting individuals in accessing, comprehending, and benefiting from the human genome,” stated Wojcicki. “We firmly believe it is essential for individuals to have the power of choice and transparency regarding their genetic data, as well as the opportunity to explore their ancestry and health risks according to their preferences.”
The years leading up to 23andMe‘s bankruptcy were tumultuous, marred by a significant data breach in 2023 that impacted millions of customers and substantial layoffs in 2024 that affected approximately 40 percent of the company’s workforce.
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Daniel Mercer
