The genetic testing firm 23andMe has secured approximately $82.5 million in a recent financing round, stemming from an $85 million equity share offering, as detailed in a new document filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This funding, as reported by the Wall Street Journal, was provided by investors such as Sequoia Capital and NewView Capital, increasing the company’s total funding to over $850 million.

The company indicated to the Wall Street Journal that this Series F funding round does not have a designated specific purpose, but will be utilized for general business operations to support continued growth and development. 23andMe’s core business revolves around the sale of direct-to-consumer genetic testing kits, offering individuals information regarding their possible health predispositions and genealogical origins through DNA analysis.

Beyond providing personal insights into health and ancestry, 23andMe also leverages the collective data it gathers for research initiatives. This includes internal studies, such as a recent investigation into the connection between genetic markers and susceptibility to COVID-19, as well as collaborations with external researchers. The company emphasizes that all data shared for research purposes is aggregated and anonymized to protect individual privacy.

Earlier this year, in January, 23andMe announced workforce reductions impacting around 14% of its employees worldwide. However, the company’s efforts related to COVID-19 this year may have highlighted the importance of its platform, particularly given the current pandemic and the possibility of similar global health challenges in the future.