Chinese Startup Wants to Predict Your Health With a Digital DNA Avatar

Wang Jun spent 16 years expanding the world's understanding of what living things are made of -- sequencing genomes including those of the giant panda and potatoes. Now he's attempting to build on that: using DNA as one component to create online avatars that could act as health-care test dummies for people. Asia's biggest internet company believes he's onto something. Wang's iCarbonX wants to construct a "digital you" containing biological samples such as saliva, proteins and DNA; bolstered by environmental measurements such as air quality; and lifestyle factors such as workout regimes and diet. The Shenzhen, China-based company is developing algorithms to analyze the data, with the intention of recommending tailored wellness programs, food choices and possibly prescription medicines.