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Best DNA Testing Kits in 2024- Unlock Your Ancestry

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Top 10 DNA Test Kits of 2023: Discover Your Ancestors

Recent advances in DNA testing are making it easier than ever to uncover the secrets of our ancestral roots. A study published in Genome Biology estimates that 60 million Americans will have undergone genetic ancestry testing by 2025. According to the same study, this will create a huge database that will offer significant benefits to consumers.

With so many options, it can be difficult to decide which DNA kit is best suited to your specific needs. Each company uses its own algorithms and research databases to determine the results. This begs the question: how do you know which kit is the most accurate, meets your DNA testing goals, and keeps your data secure?

To find the answers to these questions, we’ve reviewed and compared the best DNA test kits of 2023, including what we like most about each one, so you can make a smart purchase.

Our Top 10 Best DNA Testing Kits and Companies:

Our Methodology: How We Reviewed the Best DNA Testing Kits

To find the best DNA testing kits, we reviewed several criteria, including:

These parameters provide a good basis for conducting your own analysis, narrowing down your options, and deciding which DNA test to purchase.

Affordability

We focused on reviewing DNA testing kits that offer excellent value at an affordable price. We also considered overall cost, new subscription plans, renewals, DNA sample results, and processing and shipping costs.

Range of Information

A DNA test’s ability to accurately perform genealogical research depends on the amount of information available from the company’s databases. The deeper the archives, the more resourceful and accurate the company will be with its results. Many of the DNA testing companies we selected have millions or billions of records in their archives.

Privacy

The security and privacy of personal information are important when it comes to DNA testing. This can be a concern for those who buy at-home DNA tests, so we analyzed the protocols adopted by each company we reviewed. The companies on our list have security measures in place to ensure data security. We also considered the reviews of users of these DNA testing kits and found them to be reliable.

Result Speed

Urgent DNA tests need to be delivered quickly, so we consider delivery speed as a key factor in our evaluation. A good example of optimal turnaround time can be seen in the case of MyHeritage DNA. The company provides test results within three to four weeks.

Our Top 10 Best DNA Testing Kits

MyHeritage DNA offers tools to help you build a family tree, discover your genetic profile, and explore fun activities like animating family photos. Its testing kit gives you access to over 19.4 billion family history files and offers a detailed analysis of your ethnicity and the genetic groups from which your DNA comes.

Use autosomal DNA information to compare your chromosomes and genetic traits to those of people whose genetic material has been analyzed by the company. This can help you find unknown relatives who have also used autosomal DNA testing kits.

Blaine Bettinger, Ph.D., a professional genealogist specializing in DNA testing, explains that MyHeritage DNA also offers a chromosome viewer that allows participants to see exactly which parts of their DNA they share with another person. Additionally, recently, “this service allows users to compare up to seven genetic matches at a time.”

Why we use MyHeritage DNA: The MyHeritage DNA Complete plan gives you access to more than a dozen of the company’s genealogy research tools and family tree information. A 30-day free trial gives you access to billions of records and a free family tree builder.

Our experience: A plus is that MyHeritage DNA lets you manage multiple accounts at the same time. There’s no need to log in and out of different profiles to collect information. We also liked the ability to link multiple collections to one account and import DNA results from other companies for free.

PROS

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This DNA testing kit company is a partner and owned by Ancestry.com, one of the largest genealogy websites in the world. Users can use the platform to integrate its results with their own genealogy research.

If your primary goal is to better understand your family history, AncestryDNA is the perfect solution. Genetic wellness expert Magnolia Pretel, Ph.D., confirms that AncestryDNA will provide you with your ethnic ancestry percentage data. The information available on Ancestry.com and AncestryDNA platforms covers more than 80 countries, with results that offer a comprehensive and unique view of your ancestors.

Why we chose AncestryDNA: AncestryDNA and Ancestry.com offer an exclusive partnership that gives users access to a dual-ancestry registry. In addition, AncestryDNA uses methods like SideView technology to detect DNA shared with your parents.

Our experience: AncestryDNA is very easy to use. From the first click, you will find different options to help you choose the best plan for your needs. When we ran into difficulties with our search, the site allowed us to connect with genealogy experts. However, it did not provide reliable results for a DNA health test. If your goal is to purchase a DNA test kit, this product may not be the best fit for you.

PROS

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The company is run by a team of experts and researchers in the UK and has a reputation for providing highly detailed results, access to resources and research, and excellent customer service. It also allows you to publish a family tree book with your story. This is a personal and visual way to explain your results and share them with friends and family; we didn’t have this option with any of the other kits we reviewed.

What’s more, Living DNA can detect rare genetic diseases by providing information about genes that can help fight cancer cells. For example, it can track genes like BRCA1, which is a marker for breast cancer.

We chose Living DNA; we like its testing options, affordable prices, accessible services, and benefits. What’s most interesting to us is how this test kit combines ancestry research with personalized medical information through forensic DNA testing.

Our experience Living DNA’s personalized ancestry feature offers sub-regional analysis for specific areas, such as Europe, Africa, and the British Isles. The Wellness Enhancer is an impressive addition. it analyzes vitamin response and food metabolism, offering nutritional advice as well as exercise and recovery tips.

PROS

CONS

The company offers several health-focused tests and assessments that can help you identify risks, heart problems, vitamin deficiencies, and various lifestyle factors that may be negatively affecting your well-being. These results can help you make better lifestyle choices.

As with any health or at-home DNA test, we recommend that you speak with your healthcare professional about your test results. This is even more important with LetsGetChecked tests. Since the company focuses primarily on health assessment (not ancestry tracing), it’s important to seek appropriate medical advice and guidance before taking any action based on your test results.

Why We Chose LetsGetChecked: LetsGetChecked’s in-person appointments make getting tested incredibly easy. Simply download the app on your Android or iOS device and access the collection’s resources (including guidance on when and how to take each test). Because their tests focus primarily on health assessment, your results are 100% encrypted and protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

Our Experience: LetsGetChecked had the fastest turnaround time (2-5 days) and got our results back to us quickly and seamlessly. We were also impressed with the accessibility of the test. The company follows the same guidelines as a standard blood test at your doctor’s office.

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Unobtrusive at-home testing
Results available within 2-5 days
Medications available for certain conditions

CONS

To perform this analysis, the company analyzes various indicators to determine genetic health risks and 28 of the most common diseases. Although it uses a saliva sample collection method (some people may prefer a swab taken from the mouth), it is still effective.

After receiving your test samples, Futura Genetics carefully analyzes them to provide a comprehensive summary. This includes a 26-page health report with nutritional advice based on the results.

Why we chose Futura Genetics: Futura Genetics’ technology, along with a personalized health summary that includes nutritional advice, makes the testing process personalized and personal. We also liked the speed of results and the comprehensive report.

Our experience: We participated in a live Futura Genetics genetic counseling session with a certified physician before taking the test. This provided us with valuable information that guided us through the process. After receiving our results, we had the opportunity to have follow-up conversations, which made the experience more like a traditional doctor’s consultation.

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Innovative technology can delve into the genome of your ancestors and determine their exact location, even the city. You can even follow your genealogical path on a map to see the possible direction of your family’s migration and the villages, cities, countries and even islands they may have passed through.

GPS Origins studies thousands of autosomal biomarkers to do this, highlighting your uniqueness. With a special focus on migration across the land, this DNA kit also divides your records into gene pools.giving you a close-up view of your genetic makeup and family’s efamily’slture

Why did we choose GPS Origins? The mapping features and distinct geographical bells and whistles that GPS Origins offers set it apart from the competition. Its all-in-one tools also check the genes controlling healthy weight, skincare, and paternity.

Our experience: We were impressed with the gene pool profile available to GPS Origins subscribers. The interactive map was a big bonus for our ancestral research, showing detailed information on both our maternal and paternal ancestors and their migration journeys.

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Genetic health reports, based on samples provided to 23andMe, offer a comprehensive look at your ancestry and health. For example, they reveal the science behind your eye color and what influences your sense of smell, taste, and facial features. Evidence-based reports identify potential risks for a variety of diseases, including respiratory and cancer.

While the company’s ethnicity test isn’t as accurate as others, 23andMe is one of the most accurate DNA kits for ethnicity testing on the market.

Why we chose 23andMe: 23andMe offers an excellent and comprehensive genetic health report. With haplogroup data, you can dig deeper into your ancestral roots. They also have a feature that allows you to explore the timelines of different ancestors and connect with DNA-matched relatives by sending them a message.

Our experience: We found 23andMe to be an excellent choice when it comes to customer service. Interactions with the company were helpful and convenient. Interestingly, 23andMe allows users to voluntarily participate in genetic research, linking their information to future studies. We like that this option is valid and that you can opt out at any time.

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  • No genealogy testing available… post-mortem testing requires upgrade

HomeDNA processes raw data about your genes and is ideal for more specialized testing and ancestral DNA research. In addition to being a preferred option for paternity testing, SpecializedA does an excellent job with DNA ancestry testing through its subsidiary, GPS Origins.

Kits are affordable, and the HomeDNA extraction process is easy to complete. The company also offers genetic health tests that can reveal your sensitivities to certain foods, pet allergens, and skin care products.

With HomeDNA, you can import reports from other genealogy research sites to make it easier to track your results. The opposite is also possible: export your HomeDNA results to other sites. You can also track your DNA migration patterns to see the ancestral interactions between your maternal and paternal lines.

Why we chose HomeDNA: HomeDNA has the first paternity test in the US (according to the product website) and offers accurate results at an affordable price. Plus, the easy-to-use kit is one of the few we reviewed that extends its DNA testing services to animals.

Our experience: We found the online platform easy to navigate, and we liked the ability to shop for health and beauty products based on sensitivity results, which is a convenient and useful addition.

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Vitagene’s testing options include diet, supplements, fitness, and skin reports. There are also tests for genetic risks, certain skin conditions, immunity, and nutritional deficiencies. The company’s product line also includes a COVID-19 testing kit.

Why we chose Vitagene: Vitagene offers several detailed health reports that aren’t available with most competing products. Competitors have also been attracted to the company for its health-focused testing products, which include inflammation tests, sleep and stress tests.

Our experience: Although Vitagene offers several how-to resources and an FAQ section for users to peruse online, there is not much information to read through. Luckily, the test was pretty intuitive to use; it required a basic cheek swab and only took a couple of minutes. We also found customer service reps to be friendly and responsive.

PROS

Useful health tips
Additional DNA-based tips
Offers an additional health boost if you already have DNA data

CONS

Low level of detail in ancestry report
Limited FAQs on the website

In addition to a mouth swab, EasyDNA uses hair samples to perform detailed DNA testing. The company can also confirm the presence of DNA in a relative’s cremated remains.

It offers several types of tests, including prenatal and paternity tests. So whether you want to know the sex of your baby, learn more about their genetic health, or find out the ancestry of a deceased loved one, EasyDNA is for you. Its wide range of services sets it apart from other testing kit providers.

EasyDNA offers ancestry, drug, and clinical testing options. As the name suggests, this kit focuses on making it easy for you to get specialized and targeted DNA testing from a single provider.

Why we chose EasyDNA: EasyDNA provides accurate and specialized results. Considering the number of tests offered, its speed is exceptional. In addition, they offer a wide range of services and excellent customer service. EasyDNA is currently available in 25 countries; we are impressed by the popularity of the kits and the customer service in several languages.

Our experience: We contacted customer service via email and WhatsApp for assistance, and the response was quick and helpful. We also found quality resources on the EasyDNA website for interested potential customers, as well as new or existing users.

PROS

Wide range of DNA tests
Results within 3-5 days
Works with accredited laboratories

CONS

No database to track family members
No access to raw data

What are DNA Tests?

DNA tests, also known as genetic tests, are medical tests that look for variations or mutations in the genetic sequence. Using samples of blood, hair or bodily fluids, these tests detect changes in your genes, proteins or chromosomes. By identifying variations in the genetic code, they can determine your family history, assess your likelihood of inheriting a genetic disease or assess your chances of developing a disease.

While a doctor may order a genetic test for medical reasons, many people purchase home DNA kits out of curiosity and to better understand themselves.

Privacy Considerations with DNA Test Kits

As DNA testing becomes more popular, concerns about data privacy and security are growing. Common concerns include the potential for sensitive genetic information to be disclosed to third parties without your permission or for personal data to be commercialized.

For example, companies may use genetic information for research and marketing purposes without your permission or consent. Some insurance companies may also use this data to determine eligibility or authorization for a home DNA test, taking into account the potential consequences. Sharing genetic information is a personal decision that requires careful consideration and an understanding of the potential benefits and risks.

Privacy and DNA Test Kits: Should You Share Your Data?

Before submitting your DNA sample for testing, review their privacy policies and potential risks. DNA testing kit companies may access your genetic information and use it for a variety of purposes, such as research, product development, and marketing. Law enforcement agencies may also have access to the data.

Most providers will post their policies online or on the product packaging, so be sure to read all terms and conditions carefully.

You should also be aware that you and your family members have similar genetic sequences. By sharing your genetic code, you are also aware of the information being shared online and are only using secure digital storage that guarantees access to your results.

How Does DNA Testing Work?

DNA tests analyze genetic material to determine certain information about your characteristics, ancestry, and genetic makeup. Companies typically follow these steps to analyze your DNA:

  1. A DNA sample is taken from your blood, saliva, or hair and sent to a testing kit.
  2. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
  3. Laboratory technicians create many copies of the DNA through a process called amplification.
  4. The amplified DNA is analyzed through techniques like sequencing, to identify certain genetic markers.
  5. This analysis reports the DNA testing kit’s finakit’sults.

Using the DNA Testing Kit: Step-by-Step Guide

Using a DNA kit is a simple and convenient way to collect genetic material and send it to a lab for analysis. Reputable DNA testing companies include step-by-step instructions to guide you through the collection process and ensure the most accurate results for your results.

To use the kit, you will need to collect a saliva sample, usually using a buccal swab. (Although some kits may require a blood sample.) The instructions included with the kit will explain how to collect the sample and how much saliva to inject.

If the DNA test kit requires a blood test, it will instruct you to collect a DNA sample by pricking your finger with a lancet, gently massaging it to increase blood flow, and filling a test tube.

In the final part of the testing process, you will register the sample online using the barcode that corresponds to your specific kit. The test kit will include detailed instructions for completing your sample, as well as return shipping packaging, pricing information, and expected time to receive your results.

Different Types of DNA Tests

As genetic testing technology has evolved, so has the versatility of DNA tests. Because of this, there are several different types, depending on the specific information they reveal. Below are seven of the most common types of DNA tests you should be aware of.

Family Tree Builders & Genealogy Tests

Genealogy tests like 23andMe and MyHeritage use DNA-based genetic markers to determine your ancestry and then use family tree tools to determine your ancestry. This allows you to use the results of your genealogy tests to create a visual family tree. While you can use them separately, many people prefer to use the tests and family tree tools together to summarize and organize their results.

With this information, you can learn more about your ancestry, including where your ancestors came from, their migration patterns, and their ethnicity. Family tree generators and genealogy tests are a fun and informative way to explore your ancestors and family history.

Sibling DNA Test Kits

Sibling DNA testing kits can be useful for establishing genetic relationships between siblings or for reliable paternity testing (if one or both parents are unavailable or deceased). DNA paternity tests also help establish legal relationships for inheritance or immigration purposes.

Paternity Tests

Paternity testing is often used to compare a child’s DNA with the DNA of the father of the child’s possible father, if a match is found. A positive result indicates that the man is indeed the father of the child.

Paternity testing is usually performed to establish or verify legal paternity and to assist in arranging child custody or support.

Ancestry Tests

Also known as genetic genealogy, DNA ancestry testing determines your ethnic origins and family history. These tests can fill in any gaps in your historical records and confirm the stories of your relatives.

Because ancestry tests provide estimates of ethnicity based on genetic data, some are specifically designed for specific populations. For example, specialty kits include extensive databases of genetic information on African Americans and Asian Americans and offer detailed, targeted results for descendants of those ethnic groups.

Health Tests

DNA health tests analyze your DNA to identify any genetic markers or variations that may indicate an increased risk of diseases or conditions. They provide health information that can influence your daily lifestyle choices, medical decisions, or treatment options.

In addition, several DNA health tests are designed to detect carrier status for certain diseases, such as sickle cell anemia.

Note: You should not use DNA health testing to diagnose diseases or conditions without the supervision of your healthcare professional.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is a medical procedure that aims to prevent and treat genetic disorders. It identifies underlying problems and changes the genetic material inside cells.

This procedure may involve replacing a mutated gene with a functional gene, disabling a gene that causes a disease, or introducing a new gene to combat the disease.

Although gene therapy is still in the early stages of development, it has the potential to treat or cure many diseases.

How to Choose a DNA Test Kit?

Different DNA test kits focus on providing a wide range of data and results. To decide which one is right for you, consider your goals. Whether you want to confirm your ancestry, find lost relatives, or learn about potential health issues, here are seven key factors to consider when choosing the best DNA test for your interests or needs:

Information Revealed by the Test

Before purchasing a DNA kit, consider your motivation and goals for getting tested. For example, an ancestral DNA test can help you better understand your ethnicity and family heritage. A health test is the best option if you and your doctor want to rule out possible genetic diseases.

Type of Test

DNA tests reveal different types of information, depending on the genetic material being analyzed. For example, mitochondrial DNA tests reveal information about your maternal lineage (they analyze your mother’s family). Y-DNA tests, on the other hand, reveal specific information about your paternal lineage (your father’s father’s family).

Pricing for DNA Testing

The cost of a DNA kit varies depending on the type of test and the lab that performs it. Some kits, like LivingDNA, can be inexpensive, while others are expensive.

Research the most affordable DNA testing kits available today to find one that fits your budget. When searching, keep in mind that insurance may not cover the cost of health-related DNA testing. Check with your insurer and the test provider to find out if you will have to pay the full cost of the test or if a portion of it may be covered.

Pricing for Other DNA Test Types

Sometimes, in addition to the purchase price of your DNA testing kit, there are other costs to consider. For example, you may have to pay extra for the testing process. Certain types of DNA tests may collect and ship multiple samples, which increases the overall cost of the test.

Other tests, such as prenatal or cancer-related genetic information tests, may require additional medical procedures, biopsies, or imaging tests. You may also have to pay for genetic counseling and follow-up care. Consulting with a healthcare professional or genetic counselor can help you better estimate your overall costs.

Ease of Use

Simplicity can be a differentiating factor when choosing DNA testing kits. Sample collection can vary depending on the type of test; some methods are significantly more difficult than others. When shopping for tests, look for ones that include step-by-step instructions, non-invasive sample collection, and easy-to-understand privacy and security protocols.

Quality of Reports

If you collect and submit DNA samples for testing, you will understand the final report results. Ask your healthcare professional or genetic counselor to explain some of the preliminary data. You may also want to choose a company that offers a clear and concise final report. (Sets like 23andMe and AncestryDNA are known for their easy-to-use reports.)

Accuracy of DNA Test Results

The type of test performed and how it is performed can affect the accuracy of the results. It may be necessary to do some research to determine which tests have a higher level of accuracy. We recommend reading user reviews and analyzing their information about the test results and accuracy before purchasing. Also, be aware of reports of false positives or negatives, which can have significant consequences, especially in paternity cases.

Brands like AncestryDNA and MyHeritage DNA are known for the accuracy of their results.

Privacy Protection

DNA tests reveal sensitive information about your genetic makeup that affects your personal, medical, and family history. To protect your privacy, you need to know how your samples and results may be used and stored, and how access to them is managed.

Some DNA tests require that you send your sample to an outside laboratory, which may raise privacy concerns. We recommend that you carefully read the test kits’ privacy policies to better understand the specifics of analyzing and publishing (or sharing) your DNA kit results.

In addition to basic genetic results, some DNA kits offer additional features and can provide additional details and information about your genes. For example, some DNA tests reveal carrier status for certain genetic conditions or can provide information about the chronology of your ancestors. Others provide access to larger databases with millions or billions of DNA matches.

Who Should Consider DNA Testing? And Who Shouldn’t? Shouldn’t you find specific DNA results for your gene sequence, there are some instances in which it may be better for a family member to take a test than you. Also, taking a DNA test may negatively impact your health.

To determine whether the benefits outweigh the risks, we recommend genetic counseling before and after taking a DNA test. However, in most cases, the following information can help you decide whether it’s a good health test.

Some of the best reasons to take a DNA test are:

Find out about your biological family.

A history of mental illness may make it difficult for you or your test taker to cope with the emotional impact of your test results.

What Can DNA Testing Reveal?

DNA tests can reveal a wide range of information beyond your ancestry or health. They can also show dietary restrictions, share genetic markers, predict or explain reactions to certain medications, and help develop or prescribe personalized medications.

Limits of DNA Testing

While DNA testing is a powerful tool for uncovering personalized information about you and your ancestors, there are limitations. For example, it cannot predict behavior, personality, environmental characteristics, or other non-genetic factors. While health tests can tell you about possible changes in your health, they also cannot guarantee 100% of your future health or your chances of developing a genetic disease.

Important DNA Testing Terminology

When searching for DNA testing kits, you may come across unfamiliar terms and language. To help you decipher the most common terms, we’ve created a glossary of the nine most common genetic words or phrases you’ll ever hear.

 

Emerging Trends in DNA Testing Shaping the Future

The DNA revolution is here to stay. From history to healthcare to forensics, DNA testing is providing genetic information and comprehensive insights to expand scientific understanding of the human genome.

Recent DNA research and testing have created several significant trends that could impact and potentially revolutionize the future. Some of them include:

Retelling History

Today, the study of DNA is changing and revolutionizing the way it has developed throughout history. Researchers are using DNA testing to learn more about the migration patterns of ancient populations and to better understand human evolution. For example, in a 2020 study, Takashi Gakuhari and Shigeki Nakagome of Trinity College Dublin led a team that analyzed whole-genome sequencing data from a 2,500-year-old Jomon individual using DNA testing. This data was analyzed to gain new insights into the migration routes of early East Asian populations.

Heritage Travel

You can not only study your ancestors, but also explore your heritage. Through DNA testing, heritage tourism companies help people connect with their ancestral lands and offer personalized travel experiences based on their genetic heritage.

Advancing Wellness

DNA testing can predict your genetic risk for certain medical conditions and drug reactions. This can help you make lifestyle changes to reduce your chances of developing these conditions. Knowing your biological responses to certain medications can also help your healthcare provider tailor your medications and treatments to your needs.

Early Disease Detection

Recent studies are using personalized methods to detect diseases early, significantly improving the chances of survival. For example, in 2020, Shindong Chen and his team of researchers successfully used DNA testing to detect cancer in its early stages. This is a remarkable advance, especially in the treatment of diseases like cancer; early detection can make the difference between survival and serious consequences.

Fighting Crime

DNA testing is becoming increasingly important in solving crimes and bringing criminals to justice. The ability to collect individual evidence at crime scenes has revolutionized law enforcement and forensic science. For example, in 2013, 49 years after the crime, the Evolutionizedn Police Department used Y-DNA analysis to solve the Boston Strangler case.

Additional DNA Test Kits and Companies We’ve ReviWe’veAs DNA testing becomes increasingly popular, many new companies and test kits are entering the market. While this top 10 list of DNA testing kits is a good starting point, there are additional options that didn’t makdidn’tlist but are still worth exploring:

From the most affordable kits available in 2023 to the most common surnames in the United States, we have a comprehensive collection of guides to help you learn, including:

Making an Informed Purchase of a DNA Testing Kit

DNA testing is a rapidly growing field that offers a wealth of information about your ancestry, health, and genetic predispositions.

Our top ten DNA test kits are: MyHeritage DNA, AncestryDNA, Living DNA, LetsGetChecked, Futura Genetics, GPS Origins, 23andMe, HomeDNA, Vitagene, and EasyDNA.

The Top 10 offers tips to help you find the best DNA test kit for your needs and interpret your results.

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