Frequently Asked Questions

Uploading your DNA file is easy:

1. Log in to your account
2. Navigate to "Upload DNA File" in the main menu
3. Select your DNA file from your computer (typically a .txt or .zip file)
4. Choose which testing company provided your file
5. Click "Upload"
6. Wait for the file to process (usually a few minutes)

Important tips:

• Do not edit or modify your DNA file before uploading
• Upload the file exactly as downloaded from your testing company
• Supported formats: TXT, ZIP from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, FTDNA, LivingDNA, and many others

We accept RAW DNA files from the following companies:

• 23andMe (recommended for best haplogroup coverage)
• AncestryDNA
• MyHeritage
• FamilyTreeDNA (FTDNA)
• LivingDNA
• TellMeGen
• Gene by Gene
• National Geographic (Gene 2.0)
• Genera
• WeGene
• Sequencing.com
• SelfDecode
• MEUDNA
• SomosAncestria
• 24Genetics
• Adntro
• Nebula Genomics (RAW format - use our WGS to RAW service)
• Dante Labs (RAW format - use our WGS to RAW service)

Note: We also accept merged RAW DNA files. For best results, we recommend files from the Illumina GSA genotyping platform (23andMe V5, FTDNA, MyHeritage V2).

*DNA Genics is not endorsed by or affiliated with these companies.

We accept DNA files in the following formats:

Accepted Formats:

• RAW (.txt) - The most common format from consumer DNA testing companies
• ZIP files - Compressed RAW files (will be automatically extracted)
• VCF files - Variant Call Format (can be converted using our VCF to RAW service)

Important Guidelines:

• Upload the file exactly as downloaded from your testing company
• Do not edit, modify, or open the file with Excel or text editors
• Do not rename or change the file extension
• Do not upload already converted files from our site (no benefit)
• File size typically ranges from 5MB to 50MB depending on the testing company

Special Cases:

• BAM/CRAM files: Use our "WGS to RAW" service to convert
• VCF files: Use our "VCF to RAW" service for conversion
• FASTQ files: Use our FASTQ conversion services

After your imputation service is complete, you can download your imputed files:

1. Log in to your account
2. Navigate to the "Products" section
3. Look for your imputed file (it will be listed as a separate sample)
4. Click on the sample to view details
5. Click the "Download" button to get your imputed RAW file

What is an imputed file?
The imputation service extends your DNA file from approximately 700,000 SNPs to over 30 million SNPs using advanced statistical algorithms and reference populations. This provides more comprehensive genetic data for analysis.

File Details:

• Format: Standard RAW format compatible with most analysis tools
• Size: Significantly larger than your original file (100MB+)
• Processing time: Available within 24-72 hours after payment

Your phased files are available in the Products section after processing:

1. Log in to your account
2. Go to "Products" in the main menu
3. Find your phased file sample
4. Click to view details and download options
5. Download your phased RAW file

What is a phased file?
Phasing determines which DNA variants (alleles) you inherited from your mother vs. your father. This is useful for:

• Understanding parental genetic contributions
• More accurate ancestry analysis
• Genealogy research and matching
• Advanced genetic studies

Phasing Options:

• Single Phasing: Statistical phasing without parental data
• Duo/Trio Phasing: Uses parent(s) DNA for highly accurate phasing

Processing time: 24-48 hours after order placement.

We are currently working on native VCF file support. In the meantime, you can use our "VCF to RAW" conversion service:

How to Convert VCF to RAW:

1. Go to our Store and find the "VCF to RAW" service
2. Purchase the conversion service
3. Upload your VCF file
4. Receive a converted RAW file within 12-48 hours
5. Use the RAW file for all reports and analysis

What is a VCF file?

A VCF (Variant Call Format) file stores information about DNA variations. Unlike RAW files that include both variants and non-variants, VCF files typically only include detected variations. This can sometimes affect analysis accuracy.

Important Notes:

• VCF files from WGS (Whole Genome Sequencing) provide comprehensive data
• Some VCF files may have limited SNP coverage
• The conversion process ensures compatibility with our platform
• For BAM/CRAM files from WGS testing, use our "WGS to RAW" service instead

BAM and CRAM files are too large to upload directly (they contain the entire genome sequence). However, we offer a "WGS to RAW" conversion service:

WGS to RAW Service:

1. Navigate to our Store → Services
2. Select "WGS to RAW File Conversion"
3. Purchase the service
4. Follow instructions to provide your BAM/CRAM file (via secure link)
5. Receive your converted RAW file + haplogroups + additional information
6. Processing time: 12-48 hours

What You Get:

• Standard RAW DNA file compatible with all platforms (23andMe, AncestryDNA format)
• MTDNA and YDNA haplogroup predictions
• Ready for upload to DNA Genics and other analysis sites
• Compatible with MyHeritage, FTDNA, LivingDNA matching databases

Supported WGS Providers:

• Nebula Genomics
• Dante Labs
• YSEQ
• Other WGS providers offering BAM/CRAM files

Note: This service is specifically for BAM/CRAM files. If you have a VCF file, use our "VCF to RAW" service instead.

A VCF (Variant Call Format) file is a standardized text file format used to store genetic variation data.

Key Characteristics:

• Variant-Only: VCF files typically store only the DNA positions where variations are detected
• Compressed Data: More compact than RAW files, focusing on differences from the reference genome
• Technical Format: Commonly used in research and medical genetics
• WGS Origin: Often generated from Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) data

VCF vs. RAW Files:

Important Considerations:

When a report is based solely on a VCF file, it may not be as accurate as expected because it doesn't include all necessary information (non-variant positions). This is why we recommend converting VCF files to RAW format using our conversion service for optimal analysis.

Common Sources:

• Whole Genome Sequencing providers (Nebula, Dante Labs)
• Research facilities and medical testing
• Specialized genetic testing companies

No, you cannot merge RAW files from different people.

Our merging service is designed to combine multiple DNA test files from the same individual only. This is important for several reasons:

Why Merge Your Own Files?

• Increased Coverage: Different testing companies analyze different SNPs
• Better Results: More DNA markers = more accurate analysis
• Comprehensive Data: Combine strengths of multiple tests
• Enhanced Reports: Unlock more detailed ancestry and trait predictions

Valid Merging Scenarios:

• Your 23andMe file + your AncestryDNA file
• Your MyHeritage file + your FTDNA file
• Any combination of your own test files from different companies

How to Merge Your Files:

1. Navigate to Store → Services
2. Select "Merge RAW Files" service
3. Upload 2 or more of your DNA files
4. Receive a merged file with maximum SNP coverage

Important: Merging files from different individuals will produce invalid and meaningless results. Each person must have their own separate DNA file.

We accept RAW DNA files from numerous companies and in various formats:

Supported DNA Testing Companies:

• 23andMe (all versions - V3, V4, V5 recommended)
• AncestryDNA
• MyHeritage (V1 and V2)
• FamilyTreeDNA (FTDNA)
• LivingDNA
• TellMeGen
• Gene by Gene
• National Geographic Genographic Project (Geno 2.0)
• Genera
• WeGene
• Sequencing.com
• SelfDecode
• MEUDNA
• SomosAncestria
• 24Genetics
• Adntro

File Formats Accepted:

• TXT files: Standard RAW format
• ZIP files: Compressed RAW files (automatically extracted)
• Merged files: Previously merged RAW files

Special Cases (Require Conversion Services):

• Nebula Genomics: Use WGS to RAW service
• Dante Labs: Use WGS to RAW service
• VCF files: Use VCF to RAW service
• BAM/CRAM files: Use WGS to RAW service
• FASTQ files: Use FASTQ conversion services

Important Upload Rules:

• Do NOT edit or modify the file
• Do NOT open with Excel or text editors
• Upload as downloaded from your testing company
• Do NOT upload previously converted files from our site
• Keep original file format and name when possible

*DNA Genics is not endorsed by or affiliated with these companies.

If you experience issues uploading your DNA file, try these troubleshooting steps:

Common Solutions:

1. Check File Format:
   • Ensure it's a valid RAW DNA file (TXT or ZIP)
   • Verify it's downloaded directly from your testing company
   • Make sure the file hasn't been edited or modified
2. Check File Size:
   • Typical range: 5MB - 50MB
   • Very large files might time out
   • For files over 100MB, use appropriate conversion service
3. Browser Issues:
   • Try a different web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)
   • Clear browser cache and cookies
   • Disable browser extensions temporarily
   • Ensure JavaScript is enabled
4. Connection Problems:
   • Check your internet connection stability
   • Try uploading during off-peak hours
   • Avoid uploading on slow/unstable connections
5. File Corruption:
   • Re-download the file from your testing company
   • Verify the file opens correctly in a text editor
   • Check if the ZIP file extracts properly

Still Having Issues?

If the problem persists:

• Take a screenshot of any error messages
• Note your file size and testing company
• Contact our support team with these details
• Try uploading from a different device

Our support team typically responds within 24 hours and can help diagnose upload issues.

Yes, you can manage your uploaded DNA files through your account:

To Delete a File:

1. Log in to your account
2. Navigate to "My Samples" or "Files"
3. Find the sample you want to delete
4. Click on the sample to view options
5. Select "Delete" or the trash icon
6. Confirm the deletion

To Replace a File:

1. You can upload a new file for the same person
2. The new file will appear as a separate sample
3. You can then delete the old sample if desired
4. Or keep both for comparison purposes

Important Notes:

• Deletion is permanent: Deleted files and their associated reports cannot be recovered
• Reports are deleted too: All analysis and reports linked to that sample will be removed
• Purchased services: Deleting a sample doesn't refund purchased services
• Backup recommended: Keep a copy of your original file before deleting

Managing Multiple Versions:

• If you have multiple test files (original, imputed, phased, merged), each appears as a separate sample
• You can choose to keep or delete any version
• Label each sample clearly to avoid confusion

For assistance with file management, contact our support team.

You can download your results and reports from your account dashboard:

Downloading Reports (PDF):

1. Log in to your account
2. Go to the specific report you want to download
3. Look for the "Download PDF" or "Export" button
4. Save the PDF to your computer

Downloading DNA Files:

1. Navigate to "Products" or "My Samples"
2. Find the file you want to download (imputed, phased, merged, etc.)
3. Click the "Download" button
4. Save the RAW file to your computer

What You Can Download:

• Original uploaded files: Your initial DNA file
• Imputed files: Extended to 30+ million SNPs
• Phased files: With parental chromosome information
• Merged files: Combined from multiple tests
• Converted files: VCF to RAW, WGS to RAW, etc.
• Report PDFs: Various ancestry and trait reports
• G25 Coordinates: For use in external calculators

File Availability:

• Files remain available in your account indefinitely
• Download as many times as needed
• No expiration on file access

Download Tips:

• Files are typically large (5MB - 200MB+)
• Ensure stable internet connection
• Keep downloaded files backed up
• Some browsers may flag large files - this is normal

Yes! You can and should upload multiple test files for the same person to maximize your genetic data coverage:

Benefits of Multiple Files:

• Increased SNP Coverage: Each company tests different markers
• Better Analysis: More data points = more accurate results
• Comprehensive Reports: Access to more detailed predictions
• Comparison: See how different tests complement each other

How to Upload Multiple Files:

1. Upload your first DNA file normally
2. Upload your second DNA file as a new sample
3. Repeat for any additional test files
4. Optionally, use our Merge Service to combine them into one super-file

Merging Service:

For the best experience with multiple files:

• Purchase our "Merge RAW Files" service
• Combine 2+ files from the same person
• Get a single merged file with maximum SNP coverage
• Use the merged file for all future analysis
• Benefits: 1-2 million+ SNPs instead of 600K-700K

Organizing Multiple Files:

• Label each sample clearly (e.g., "23andMe Test", "Ancestry Test")
• Keep track of which companies provided which files
• Note: Each file counts as a separate sample in your account

Recommended Combinations:

• 23andMe + AncestryDNA (excellent for haplogroups + coverage)
• MyHeritage + FTDNA (good coverage combination)
• Any combination maximizes your genetic insights

File size limits depend on the type of file you're uploading:

Standard RAW Files:

• Maximum size: 100 MB
• Typical size: 5-50 MB
• Format: TXT or ZIP compressed
• Processing: Automatic and immediate

Files Exceeding Limits:

If your file is larger than standard limits:

• BAM/CRAM files: Too large for direct upload - use "WGS to RAW" conversion service
• Very large VCF files: Use "VCF to RAW" conversion service
• Imputed files from other services: May need conversion
• Custom formats: Contact support for assistance

Typical File Sizes by Company:

Upload Tips for Large Files:

• Ensure stable internet connection
• Avoid uploading on mobile networks
• Use latest version of your browser
• Allow sufficient time for upload (larger files take longer)
• Don't close browser during upload

Compression:

• ZIP compression is automatically handled
• Don't manually compress standard RAW files further
• Upload the file as downloaded from your testing company

Our WGS (Whole Genome Sequencing) to RAW conversion service transforms your comprehensive genome data into a universally compatible format:

What is WGS?

• WGS sequences your entire genome (all 3 billion+ base pairs)
• Provides comprehensive genetic information
• More detailed than SNP chip testing (which tests 600K-700K positions)
• Files are typically in BAM, CRAM, or VCF format
• File sizes: 50GB-200GB+ (too large for most platforms)

What is a RAW File?

• Standard format used by consumer DNA companies
• Contains positions relevant for ancestry and traits
• Compatible with 23andMe, AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, FTDNA
• File size: 10-50MB (much more manageable)
• Easy to upload and analyze

Conversion Process:

1. Upload/Submit: Provide your WGS file (via secure link)
2. Extraction: We extract relevant SNP positions
3. Format Conversion: Transform to standard RAW format
4. Quality Control: Verify data integrity
5. Haplogroup Analysis: Determine MTDNA and YDNA lineages
6. Delivery: Receive RAW file + haplogroup report
7. Timeframe: 12-48 hours

What You Receive:

• RAW DNA File: In 23andMe or AncestryDNA format
• MTDNA Haplogroup: Maternal lineage
• YDNA Haplogroup: Paternal lineage (for males)
• Quality Report: Data quality metrics
• SNP Count: Number of positions extracted

Key Benefits:

• Universal Compatibility: Works with all ancestry sites
• Manageable Size: From 100GB+ to 20MB
• Preserves Quality: Maintains WGS accuracy
• Multiple Uses: Upload to many platforms
• Family Sharing: Easy to share with relatives

Compatible WGS Providers:

• Nebula Genomics
• Dante Labs
• YSEQ
• Full Genomes Corporation
• Sequencing.com
• Any provider offering BAM/CRAM/VCF files

Supported Input Formats:

• BAM: Binary Alignment Map
• CRAM: Compressed Reference-oriented Alignment Map
• VCF: Variant Call Format (WGS-derived)
• FASTQ: Raw sequencing reads (slower processing)

Use Your Converted File:

• Upload to DNA Genics for all our reports
• Upload to GEDmatch for DNA matching
• Upload to MyHeritage, FTDNA for family matching
• Use in third-party analysis tools
• Share with genetic counselors

Note: This service is specifically for WGS BAM/CRAM files. For smaller VCF files, use our "VCF to RAW" service instead.

Yes, but there are important considerations about VCF to RAW conversion:

Valid Use Cases:

1. Platform Compatibility:

• Converting WGS-derived VCF to use on ancestry sites
• Making data compatible with 23andMe, AncestryDNA formats
• Enabling upload to genealogy platforms
• Using with third-party analysis tools

2. Data Management:

• Reducing file size for easier handling
• Standardizing format across family members
• Creating backups in different formats
• Sharing with relatives in accessible format

3. Analysis Tools:

• Using tools that require RAW format
• Running calculators expecting consumer DNA format
• Third-party ancestry analysis
• Trait prediction tools

Important Limitations:

VCF Files Have Restrictions:

• Variant-Only: VCF files typically only include variations, not all positions
• Coverage Varies: May not have all SNPs needed for some analysis
• Quality Dependent: Accuracy depends on original sequencing quality
• Not All Equal: WGS VCF ≠ SNP array VCF

Special Considerations:

For WGS-Derived VCF Files:

• Excellent source material
• High quality and comprehensive
• RAW conversion works very well
• Recommended for ancestry use

For SNP Array VCF Files:

• May have limited usefulness
• Already in restricted format
• Conversion may not add value
• Check original source

NOT Recommended For:

• MyHeritage/FTDNA/LivingDNA Compatibility: These platforms work best with WGS to RAW service
• Medical Decision Making: VCF conversions should not replace direct testing
• Clinical Diagnosis: Use proper clinical testing instead
• Low-Quality VCF: Poor input = poor output

Our Service:

Our VCF to RAW service is designed for:

• Individuals with WGS tests (Nebula, Dante, YSEQ)
• Those needing file conversion for analysis tools
• Research and educational purposes
• Genealogy applications

However, we strongly recommend:

• If you have BAM/CRAM files, use "WGS to RAW" service instead
• WGS to RAW provides better quality and compatibility
• VCF to RAW is a secondary option when BAM/CRAM unavailable

Before Converting:

• Verify your VCF file origin and quality
• Understand what data it contains
• Consider if conversion will meet your needs
• Check if original BAM/CRAM files are available

For questions about whether VCF to RAW conversion is right for your specific case, contact our support team.