{"signature": "0x2e659f614899c0b55b0a9024fde510acd4f2735add4520d0c9d57d1903a2c4a46be8bd8249c4ebe0f3b73ce7e7389badd29609e12fd3e42a95d91c3a34345e781c", "application": {"round": "0x0C0412DDB846096Ea1e37de717921EBF4fEF9A39", "answers": [{"type": "email", "answer": "just.dna.seq@gmail.com", "hidden": true, "question": "Email Address", "questionId": 0}, {"type": "paragraph", "answer": "total 77K USD (approximation) since the initial GitCoin Longevity round at the end of 2021", "hidden": false, "question": "Funding Sources and Total prior funding for project in USD", "questionId": 1}, {"type": "number", "answer": "5", "hidden": false, "question": "Team Size", "questionId": 2}, {"type": "paragraph", "answer": "https://github.com/antonkulaga\nhttps://github.com/winternewt \nhttps://github.com/marfantyk\n( https://github.com/Alex-Karmazin , https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-karmazin-ua/),\n( https://github.com/nikhilYadala , https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikhilyadala/ )", "hidden": false, "question": "Profiles or socials of other main team members publicly associated with project", "questionId": 3}, {"type": "short-answer", "answer": "antonkulaga", "hidden": true, "question": "Telegram username", "questionId": 4}, {"type": "short-answer", "answer": "50", "hidden": false, "question": "How old is the project? (Months)", "questionId": 5}, {"type": "paragraph", "answer": "When we first created Just-DNA-Seq, we focused only on full genome sequencing (WGS) and whole exome sequencing (WES). That’s because popular services like 23andMe and MyHeritage look at only about 0.03% of your DNA. While they do highlight interesting genetic markers, it’s just a tiny slice of the picture. With sequencing costs dropping fast, we saw WGS and WES as a way better option for anyone who wants real insight from their DNA, definitely worth the price difference.\nAt the time, we offered some basic support for 23andMe files through OakVar, but it wasn’t maintained—mainly because many of the markers used in our longevity reports weren’t even included in 23andMe data. We didn’t ignore these on purpose; it just didn’t seem worth focusing on such a limited format.\nBut then, something changed.\n23andMe filed for bankruptcy. Millions of people who had paid to explore their DNA were left without support, feeling abandoned and unsure what to do with their data. Many reached out to platforms like ours, hoping to salvage some value from the files they still had.\nThat moment made us rethink things.\nYes, full genome sequencing is still the better option. But now, helping people make use of their old 23andMe files is not just a feature—it’s a mission. We want to rebuild trust in personal genomics. We want to show people that their data isn’t useless. And maybe, if we can give them something meaningful now, they’ll be open to proper sequencing in the future.\nSo in this round, we’re putting real effort into improving how we support 23andMe users: better annotations, smoother uploads, and more actionable insights—even with limited data.\nThis is not about cutting-edge tools at this point - this is about making personal genomics accessible, transparent, and future-ready, because everyone deserves to learn something real about their genes.\n\n\n🧬 Our Solution\nWe are upgrading Just-DNA-Seq to fully support and re-annotate 23andMe files, giving them new life.\nWhile we’ve always focused on full genome data for deeper insights, we’re now building a dedicated 23andMe track in our platform. This includes:\n✅ Improved SNP Coverage: We’re curating a list of longevity-related genetic variants that match the most common versions of 23andMe arrays.\n✅ Rescue Mode for old Tools: We’re bringing back and upgrading our OakVar-based 23andMe parser, making it easier to upload and analyze old files.\n✅ Longevity-Focused Reports: Even with limited data, users will get simplified, actionable reports about aging-related risks, protective variants, and potential longevity drugs.\n✅ \"Genetics Genie\" Chat Assistant: Our AI-powered assistant will answer questions about users' results in plain language—no genetics degree required.\n✅ Bridge to Full Sequencing: For those who want more, our reports will highlight what's missing and offer guidance for upgrading to full genome analysis in the future.\nIn short, we’re giving millions of “stranded” genetic data files a second chance—while keeping our focus on science, transparency, and personal health empowerment. What isn’t changing is that all analysis happens transparently and locally—no hidden algorithms, no data selling. Just science you can understand and control.\nRoadmap\nMonth 1\nRebuild basic support for 23andMe data files\nRehaul our report layout to account for 23andMe data properly: no more empty sections.\nStart community outreach to better understand user needs\nMonth 2–3\nUpdate the variant annotations for 23andMe data using the latest scientific papers\nHighlight key SNPs related to longevity and health risks\nMake reports clearer and more accessible for interpretation by non-experts\nPropose actionables, where applicable\nImplement the features users requested.\n\n\nMonth 4–6\nTest with real user data and gather feedback\nPolish the interface and reporting format\nShare open-source updates and basic educational materials\n\n\nIf funding allows, we’ll go further—we’re considering adding imputation that wasn’t necessary for WGS data to hint people with what variants they might as well have, based on correlations, to encourage them to validate those by considering full genome sequencing.\n", "hidden": false, "question": "Describe your project in a few paragraphs (ideally including a problem statement, solution, roadmap, and timeline for implementation)", "questionId": 6}, {"type": "paragraph", "answer": "Just-DNA-Seq embodies Decentralized Science (DeSci) principles by democratizing personal genomic insights through open-source technology (GitHub). Our platform ensures transparency and verifiable methods, promoting reproducible science. We empower individuals with tools for local genetic report generation, enhancing privacy and participation. Some of the existing features, like interpretable AI models and the Genetics Genie assistant , further DeSci goals by making complex genetic data understandable and promoting scientific literacy.\nRebuilding trust in personal genomics is crucial, particularly for users impacted by industry shifts like the 23andMe bankruptcy. Our plan to enhance support for 23andMe data formats demonstrates our commitment to inclusivity, ensuring these users aren't left behind and preventing data silos.", "hidden": false, "question": "How does your project support the mission or goals of DeSci?", "questionId": 7}, {"type": "paragraph", "answer": "We already have most of the computational resources we need, so most of the funding will go for work compensation", "hidden": false, "question": "Describe how funds from the grants program will be used for your project.", "questionId": 8}, {"type": "paragraph", "answer": "see https://gap.karmahq.xyz/project/just-dna-seq", "hidden": false, "question": "If you participated in past grant rounds (i.e. DeSci GR15/ Beta/GG 20DeSci round/GG21 DeSci round) using a different project payout wallet address, please share it here.", "questionId": 9}, {"type": "paragraph", "answer": "mentioned at https://gap.karmahq.xyz/project/just-dna-seq", "hidden": false, "question": "If this project participated in past DeSci grant rounds, please share any new updates or milestones since the last round.", "questionId": 10}, {"type": "paragraph", "answer": "In gitcoin, the funding is unpredictable. In the last round, we expected to raise much more and had ambitious plans, but we have more modest goals for this round.", "hidden": true, "question": "Is there any other information you would like to share about your project, previous work, other project affiliations, or potential conflicts of interest? (or anything not covered elsewhere in this application that you feel is relevant to share)", "questionId": 11}, {"type": "dropdown", "answer": "Yes", "hidden": false, "question": "Does 50% of your team reflect the diversity of the community your project serves with a particular emphasis on including women, Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPoC), individuals with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community?", "questionId": 12}], "project": {"id": "0x42214708589492950b00ddc6ecf98f3c4b0eda1d5dd0f59967dd8761ccc110a4", "title": "Just-DNA-Seq", "logoImg": "bafkreia3ei7wli3sstfcpwgivps4hmdeph6hdwwiio5jqvm765ae3wfuju", "metaPtr": {"pointer": "bafkreid65tv434os3q6y7s6djytbjjxqov3p256dwkc3wn6kjuxnzxfgem", "protocol": "undefined"}, "website": "https://just-dna.life/", "bannerImg": "bafkreiciyiho4d6xaxfuyo7zwn2xx6dd2332f2rqan3p5obwczmd74uoee", "createdAt": 1681763994346, "userGithub": "antonkulaga", "credentials": {"github": {"type": ["VerifiableCredential"], "proof": {"jws": "eyJhbGciOiJFZERTQSIsImNyaXQiOlsiYjY0Il0sImI2NCI6ZmFsc2V9..S4FEipoKOo0Ni89m8iIIZQRb4a0fXnLoHLZRpB3-7fBi_psjOVJ6dFWMo0U2JrUckxnF0V8B2M5viKtaO0akCw", "type": "Ed25519Signature2018", "created": "2024-08-07T07:54:07.471Z", "proofPurpose": "assertionMethod", "verificationMethod": "did:key:z6MkghvGHLobLEdj1bgRLhS4LPGJAvbMA1tn2zcRyqmYU5LC#z6MkghvGHLobLEdj1bgRLhS4LPGJAvbMA1tn2zcRyqmYU5LC"}, "issuer": "did:key:z6MkghvGHLobLEdj1bgRLhS4LPGJAvbMA1tn2zcRyqmYU5LC", "@context": ["https://www.w3.org/2018/credentials/v1"], "issuanceDate": "2024-08-07T07:54:07.471Z", "expirationDate": "2024-11-05T07:54:07.471Z", "credentialSubject": {"id": "did:pkh:eip155:1:0xBc7BeB2d44Eb0Cddf6c0F2560a21475c2E2aC19C", "hash": "v0.0.0:yOEQJ8CaYutz53Fi5GN0t+q+WBir1+mgRiN49hiLWDc=", "@context": [{"hash": "https://schema.org/Text", "provider": "https://schema.org/Text"}], "provider": "ClearTextGithubOrg#dna-seq#842436"}}, "twitter": {"type": ["VerifiableCredential"], "proof": {"jws": "eyJhbGciOiJFZERTQSIsImNyaXQiOlsiYjY0Il0sImI2NCI6ZmFsc2V9..YGSoT47SDWi-_iXOpF-lvHiuaUDCsY_CUg4ww74S-y22mTSvfW51MOdrQf1fIsWqBq1YYMPg1snbwvVD6QBfBA", "type": "Ed25519Signature2018", "created": "2024-08-07T07:53:31.572Z", "proofPurpose": "assertionMethod", "verificationMethod": "did:key:z6MkghvGHLobLEdj1bgRLhS4LPGJAvbMA1tn2zcRyqmYU5LC#z6MkghvGHLobLEdj1bgRLhS4LPGJAvbMA1tn2zcRyqmYU5LC"}, "issuer": "did:key:z6MkghvGHLobLEdj1bgRLhS4LPGJAvbMA1tn2zcRyqmYU5LC", "@context": ["https://www.w3.org/2018/credentials/v1"], "issuanceDate": "2024-08-07T07:53:31.572Z", "expirationDate": "2024-11-05T07:53:31.572Z", "credentialSubject": {"id": "did:pkh:eip155:1:0xBc7BeB2d44Eb0Cddf6c0F2560a21475c2E2aC19C", "hash": "v0.0.0:Qo4Bg8nrW2ixiW9DwaX6Sbom3mj/8YOSCvgmVDYVos0=", "@context": [{"hash": "https://schema.org/Text", "provider": "https://schema.org/Text"}], "provider": "ClearTextTwitter#just_dna_seq"}}}, "description": "# Just-DNA-Seq: Empowering Individuals with Open-Source Personal Genomics for Longevity\n\n[Just-DNA-Seq](https://just-dna.life/) is an open-source personal genomics platform designed to put individuals in control of their genetic information. Building on earlier Gitcoin-supported efforts, we're seeking additional support to expand the platform—making it even more useful for exploring longevity genetics and advancing decentralized science.\n\nOur goal is to create accessible, transparent tools that help anyone explore what their genome says about their health and longevity.\n\n### Achievements So Far\n\nHere’s what we’ve already built:\n\n* **Open-Source Toolkit:** 23 GitHub repositories form the core of our platform ([GitHub](https://github.com/dna-seq)).\n* **Longevity & Disease Modules:** 11 Oak Var modules focus on genetic insights related to aging and disease risk. (OakVar is an open-source tool for genomic variant analysis.)\n* **Personalized Reports:** We’ve developed open Genetics of Aging and Disease Reports that highlight personal health risks and potential longevity traits ([View Example Report](https://dna-seq.github.io/report_example/)).\n* **Specific Trait Analysis:** Includes a VO2 max trainability genetics module.\n* **AI-Powered Genetic Help:** Genetics Genie, our AI assistant, helps users understand complex genetics. You can try it as a standalone chat ([Chat with Genetics Genie](https://longevity-genie.info/)) or use it as a custom GPT ([Genetics Genie on OpenAI](https://chat.openai.com/g/g-HnvTUyFeq-genetics-genie)).\n* **Community Education:** We’ve hosted workshops and lectures on genetics and large language models (LLMs). ( some of them are available at [our YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@just-dna-seq700) )\n* **Scientific Contribution:** We published a preprint explaining our platform and methods ([arXiv:2403.19087](https://arxiv.org/abs/2403.19087)).\n\n### The Challenges in Personal Genomics – and How We're Solving Them\n\nGenetic data can be powerful, but it’s often locked behind barriers. We’re solving that with transparency, accessibility, and tools that make sense to non-experts.\n\n**1. Transparency and Trust**\n\nMost commercial services operate as black boxes—users don’t know how results are generated or what data is used. Just-DNA-Seq is fully open-source ([Website](https://just-dna.life)), so you can review the code ([GitHub](https://github.com/dna-seq)), run the analysis locally, and understand exactly how each insight is generated. We rely on open databases and give users control to filter and explore their data. And while open tools are the backbone of trust, we’re also working on making them easier to use—better UIs, tutorials, and documentation are part of our ongoing roadmap.\n\n**2. Making Complex Data Understandable**\n\nGenetic data is huge—and messy. While machine learning can spot patterns, it often doesn’t explain *why* they matter. We're actively integrating interpretable AI/ML models that highlight the *why*, linking predictions to genes, pathways, and biological mechanisms. Our aim is to move beyond black-box AI and make genetic insights clear and meaningful for users.\n\n**3. Lowering the Knowledge Barrier**\n\nEven with good tools, genetics can be overwhelming. That’s why we built [Genetics Genie](https://longevity-genie.info/), an AI assistant trained on curated genetic databases and modules. It's available via a web chat or as a custom GPT on OpenAI.\n\nGenetics Genie uses a multi-agent system and supports models like Llama 3.3 and Gemini to provide solid, context-aware answers. We're continuously updating its knowledge base and improving how it explains things in plain language—so users get help, not confusion.\n\n### Help Us Build the Future of Open Personal Genomics\n\nSupporting Just-DNA-Seq on Gitcoin means backing a future where anyone—not just labs or corporations—can understand and explore their own DNA. It’s a step toward a world where personal genomics is open, empowering, and community-driven.\n\nJoin us in building tools that put science into the hands of people.\n\nLet’s democratize personal genomics—together.\n", "lastUpdated": 0, "projectGithub": "dna-seq", "projectTwitter": "just_dna_seq"}, "recipient": "0x0C5B77597A614ff750b754910b8A226639b262C5"}}