How to download and analyze your AncestryDNA raw DNA data

Your raw DNA file is a plain export of the genotypes AncestryDNA already read for you. Once you have it, PossibleGenome turns it into a readable report. Here is how to download it.

Download your raw data from AncestryDNA

1. Sign in to Ancestry on a computer and open your DNA results.
2. Open your DNA test Settings (the gear icon or "Settings" link).
3. Under "Download your DNA Data", enter your password to start the request.
4. Open the confirmation email from Ancestry and download your raw DNA data (a .zip).

Start at: www.ancestry.com/

You will end up with a .zip that contains a plain-text data file. AncestryDNA updates its site from time to time, so the exact labels may differ from the steps above.

What you can learn from it

The same file reveals far more than ancestry. PossibleGenome reads 70+ traits and health markers across health predispositions, carrier status, pharmacogenomics, nutrition, and everyday traits, each explained and traceable to its source. See exactly how we interpret each result.

How to interpret your AncestryDNA results

Interpreting your AncestryDNA results means matching each genotype in the file to what published research says it means, one variant at a time. That is exactly what PossibleGenome does for you. These are some of the results people most often look up:

• Folate metabolism (MTHFR gene): the MTHFR variant behind folate and homocysteine questions.
• Adult lactose digestion: whether you keep digesting lactose as an adult (MCM6/LCT).
• Cilantro soapy-taste perception: why cilantro (coriander) tastes like soap to some people (OR6A2).
• Caffeine metabolism speed: how fast you clear caffeine (CYP1A2).
• APOE type (Alzheimer's & cholesterol): your APOE type.
• Bitter taste perception: how strongly you taste bitter compounds (TAS2R38).

See the full list of 70+ traits and health markers we read, or start with our guide on how to read your raw DNA data.

Is it private?

Yes. We analyze your raw DNA file, build your report, and discard the file. Your raw DNA is never stored.