The site is initiated by several companies owned by Salt Lake City-based Sorenson Companies. One of the companies operates a genetic database that contains DNA samples from 80,000 people in 170 countries.
GeneTree will expand that database as users send in cheek swabs to be analyzed. The site will use digital video compression technology to let users share pictures and video clips to create interactive digital family trees.
Once an individual submits their DNA it is compared against the database and the company will show people how they connect in he past and the present."
For a cost between $99 and $149, users can submit DNA samples to be matched against dozens of subgroups of DNA. It will then be used to map the global origin of a person's ancestors and digitally show the migration of relatives throughout the world to discover a family's history that may predate written records.
GeneTree will analyze only a piece of a the mitochondrial DNA, which traces a person's family history on his mother's side.
GeneTree does not reveal the names of people born in the past 100 years, to ensure that only the names of deceased people are available
All the information on the site about a person is visible only to that user, unless they opt to share information with family members.
This can potentially be an exciting adjunct to historical investigation and personal family history. The site is worth a look.