FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers about eligibility, enrollment, testing, and results—everything you need to know about Sunshine Genetics.
General Questions
Learn the basics about Sunshine Genetics and our newborn genetic screening program.
Standard newborn screening uses a heel-prick blood sample to screen for 60 conditions in Florida. Newborn screening is part of the standard of care for all newborns born in the state of Florida. You can read more about the program here.
The Sunshine Genetics Program:
- Is an opt-in research program
- Screens a baby’s DNA, using whole genome sequencing, for over 750 rare genetic conditions
- Does not replace standard newborn screening
- If families choose not to participate, their baby will still receive routine newborn screening
No, Sunshine Genetics is designed as a voluntary program at no cost to participating families. In rare cases, an additional specimen may be required to confirm the diagnosis before returning results to you, and the nature of confirmatory testing will be condition-specific. However, any additional tests not related to the conditions screened for or other downstream clinical care are beyond the scope of this study.
Eligibility & Enrollment
Find answer about eligibility requirements and how to enrol in the program.
Enrollment has not begun, information will be coming soon. The Sunshine Genetics Program is for babies born in the State of Florida and residing in Florida.
Participation is optional, and biological parents or legal guardians must provide informed consent.
The study uses a predefined condition list to ensure consistency, accuracy, and research integrity. Tier 1 is not optional, but you may opt-in to Tier 2. However, our gene lists are dynamic and will evolve over time. Please refer to our “Gene-Conditions” tab for more information.
Testing & Results
Understand the testing process, conditions screened, and what happens after results are ready.
- A previously collected newborn heel-prick blood sample will be used
- The baby’s DNA will be analyzed for a defined list of genetic conditions
- Families are notified if a condition is suspected or if additional follow-up is needed
- Please review our Conditions Screened page.
You will receive results within 3 months via your Nest portal account.
NEED ANSWER
Your child will receive one of three types of results:
- Screen Negative: A screen negative result means that no reportable genetic changes were found in the conditions we tested for.
- Screen Positive: A screen positive result means that a genetic change was found that may put your child at risk for one of the conditions we screen for.
- No result produced (sample failure): In some cases, the laboratory may not be able to generate a result from your child’s dried blood spot sample, for example, if there is not enough remaining sample material. If this happens, you will be notified through the Nest Genomics platform. No genomic result will be reported, and your child will be withdrawn from the study. There will be no further study-related contact after this notification.
Privacy Support
Your privacy matters. Get answers about data protection and how to get additional support.
Yes. Parents may withdraw consent for future data use at any time, according to study policies.
Not Sure If You Qualify?
If you’re unsure about eligibility, our team can help guide you based on your specific situation.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If your newborn is eligible, you can take part in Sunshine Genetics to access early screening and contribute to important research.