Macrogen, a genome analysis company, said Tuesday that it has entered the second pilot project for providing direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing service under the auspices of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency.

Macrogen said it has obtained certifications for all 43 items of its second pilot project following the 27 types included in the first program launched last year, providing a wide selection of genetic testing services. 

The newly added categories are filled with nutrients, including vitamin A and E, lutein, zeaxanthin, and healthcare-related items, such as the possibility of developing insomnia, abdominal obesity, weight loss from exercise, and the yo-yo effect. “As we had won certifications for its test quality, the company could get approval easily for expanding fields in the second pilot project,” it said.

The review consists of an external accuracy evaluation for the quality control of testing accuracy and service and a blind assessment of the clients. In this evaluation, the company scored 100 percent in testing all substances and proved its genetic analysis accuracy and reliability.

Macrogen plans to introduce differentiated DTC genetic test services by applying the newly added categories.

The company plans to provide a personalized diet for its clients and recommend detailed exercises, such as cardio and workouts based on their genetic data.

In addition to the tailored services, Macrogen is also developing services that could provide the probability of having certain diseases based on the client’s genetic information.

“Macrogen received regulatory approval for the largest number of categories in genetic testing in Korea, and this outcome helps to maintain our top position in the nation,” said Seo Soon-jung, a senior researcher at the company’s Genetic Service Development Department.

The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy designated Macrogen as the first bioventure for providing health services based on DTC genetic testing in 2019.