How to download and analyze your FamilyTreeDNA raw DNA data

Your raw DNA file is a plain export of the genotypes FamilyTreeDNA 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 FamilyTreeDNA

1. Sign in to your FamilyTreeDNA account.
2. Open your Family Finder downloads page (linked below).
3. Download "Build 37 Raw Data Concatenated".

Start at: www.familytreedna.com/my/family-finder/downloads.aspx

You will end up with a concatenated autosomal file (.csv.gz). FamilyTreeDNA 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 FamilyTreeDNA results

Interpreting your FamilyTreeDNA 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.