Frequently Asked Questions

Honest answers. No fine print.

What is Elpis Biosciences?

Elpis makes your genetic data accessible, interpretable, and honest. We build free tools that take your existing 23andMe or AncestryDNA data and show you what published research says about your health — clearly, with citations, and without pretending the science says more than it does.

Is this a diagnostic test?

No. Elpis reports are for research use only. They summarize published genetic research — they do not diagnose conditions, predict your future, or replace clinical testing. Always discuss your health with a qualified provider.

Why is it free?

It's your data. You already paid for it when you bought your 23andMe or AncestryDNA kit. We think you deserve to understand what's in it without paying again. There is no subscription, no freemium tier, and no premium unlock.

How is this different from 23andMe's health reports?

We say less. That might seem strange — it isn't. Every result is backed by a specific, peer-reviewed study you can read yourself. We report effect sizes, study sample sizes, and limitations. We tell you when the evidence is strong and when it isn't. We also don't hold your data — we built a tool that literally cannot hold it.

Do genetic results determine my fate?

No. These variants are statistical associations observed in large populations — not predictions of what will happen to you. Your individual experience is shaped by environment, lifestyle, stress, medications, and countless other factors. We report what the research found, not what will happen to you.

My ancestry isn't European. Are these results useful?

We're honest about this: most of our source studies were conducted in European-ancestry populations. The variants are real, but associations may differ across populations. We disclose the ancestry of every source study. We're working to build more diverse datasets — and we need users from all backgrounds to help.

My report says a variant is "not detected." What does that mean?

"Not detected" means that specific position was not present in your raw data file. We do not assume the reference allele as a default. Assuming a result we cannot confirm would be fabricating data, and we don't do that.

What should I do after reading my report?

Read it as a starting point, not a conclusion. Each variant section includes a "Discuss" prompt with specific questions worth raising with your provider. Bring the report. That conversation is the point.