The research
took decades
Getting your
results takes days
Our science
What is the exposome?
Your exposome is a record of how your environment interacts with your body over time; hair stores it in sequence. The exposome concept, the properties of hair, the significance of timing, and the technology to read it. Together, they make Traced possible.
Across your entire life.
How it works
What happens
to your sample?
Six steps stand between your sample and a detailed picture of your environmental exposure.
Processing
A proprietary robotics system prepares each specimen, handling delicate samples with automated precision to protect molecular integrity from the start.
A proprietary robotics system prepares each specimen, handling delicate samples with automated precision to protect molecular integrity from the start.
Slicing
Each strand is sectioned to expose its internal structure. Micro-dissection is performed without raising the sample's temperature, preserving all molecular information.
Each strand is sectioned to expose its internal structure. Micro-dissection is performed without raising the sample's temperature, preserving all molecular information.
Laser ablation
A first-in-class laser vaporizes organic molecules from within the strand at precise time points, extracting the record layer by layer in the order it was laid down.
A first-in-class laser vaporizes organic molecules from within the strand at precise time points, extracting the record layer by layer in the order it was laid down.
Spectrometry
Released molecules are captured and identified using a highly sensitive mass spectrometer, giving every data point in your report a solid scientific foundation
Released molecules are captured and identified using a highly sensitive mass spectrometer, giving every data point in your report a solid scientific foundation
Sequencing
Machine learning and AI map your biological responses by analyzing patterns across essential and non-essential elements in the hair, producing a temporal exposure sequence unique to you.
Machine learning and AI map your biological responses by analyzing patterns across essential and non-essential elements in the hair, producing a temporal exposure sequence unique to you.
Identification
Patterns are contextualized against a global reference database. Every element outside the expected range is given a timeframe, a likely source, and a clear direction. Molecular data, made actionable.
Patterns are contextualized against a global reference database. Every element outside the expected range is given a timeframe, a likely source, and a clear direction. Molecular data, made actionable.
Our lab
The methodology behind Traced has received funding from the National Institutes of Health. Most people will never see the inside of a research lab. This is what it looks like when the research finds its way to you.
Our expertise
Built on over a decade of NIH-validated research at Mount Sinai.
The question driving Dr Arora's work has always been the same: how is the environment interacting with our body, and what is hidden in the time dimension? Traced is his answer.
FAQs
DR MANISH ARORA
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Traced is an at-home hair testing service that measures levels of environmental elements, including toxic metals and essential minerals in your hair. Your results are compared against a global reference database and presented in a clear, easy-to-read report so you can better understand your everyday exposure patterns.
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Yes. Because only a few strands are needed, it's straightforward for the whole family to test together. Many of our members test themselves before moving on to other members of their household.
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Many members find retesting every three to six months most useful. It's an effective way to compare your results over time, and to build a longer-term picture of your environmental exposure over time.
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Your Traced Score is a single number (out of 10) that summarizes your overall exposure profile. It compares your essential nutrient levels against your toxic element levels relative to our reference database. A lower score simply means your results differ more from the reference population, it is not a measure of your health and is not a diagnosis of any condition.
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No. Traced is an informational exposure assessment. Results are for educational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The test has not been evaluated or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Always consult a qualified clinician about your health.