Nucleus Genomics Raises $14M Series A Funding - Controversial Genetics Testing

The Rise of Personalized Genomics with Nucleus

Recently, Delian Asparouhov, a partner at Founders Fund, revisited his genetic profile. Utilizing a platform developed by Nucleus Genomics – a company backed by Founders Fund – he submitted a saliva sample for DNA sequencing and analysis against a comprehensive database linking genes to health conditions. The results indicated a potential predisposition for schizophrenia, a notably high IQ, and prostate cancer. His reaction was remarkably unfazed.

A Vision for the Future of Genetic Understanding

Asparouhov’s composure stems from a shared ambition with the Nucleus team: to revolutionize healthcare through genetic insights. They envision a future where medical treatments are precisely tailored to an individual’s genetic makeup. Furthermore, they foresee prospective parents undergoing DNA sequencing before starting a family, and even dating applications incorporating “kid simulations” based on genetic compatibility.

Nucleus Genomics is now closer to realizing this vision. The company, spearheaded by 25-year-old Kian Sadeghi, has secured $14 million in Series A funding, increasing its total funding to approximately $32 million. Investors including Seven Seven Six, led by Alexis Ohanian, Balaji Srinivasan, and SpaceX veteran Achal Upadhyaya, are supporting Sadeghi’s goal of making genetic testing broadly accessible.

The Power of a Single Swab

DNA, according to Sadeghi, represents the ultimate health assessment. A single saliva sample provides analysis for over 800 conditions, with this number rapidly expanding to encompass virtually all known common and rare diseases.

The feasibility of Nucleus is directly linked to the dramatic reduction in genome sequencing costs. What once cost nearly $1 million in 2007 now costs $400 through Nucleus. The company employs a team of PhDs and genetic specialists to analyze results from a third-party sequencer, informing users of potential health risks.

From Personal Tragedy to Company Founding

Sadeghi’s dedication to this field arose from a deeply personal experience. The unexpected loss of his cousin to a previously undiagnosed genetic condition profoundly impacted his life. He subsequently left college and dedicated himself to researching and planning a genetics-focused company.

His daily routine involved waking, meditating for an hour, then spending twelve hours developing gene-related business strategies, followed by another hour of meditation. “I do believe in the soul,” he stated, adding that he has maintained a daily meditation practice for five years.

Entering the Silicon Valley Ecosystem

This period of intense work culminated in the creation of Nucleus and introduced Sadeghi to prominent figures within Silicon Valley. He first encountered Peter Thiel at Hereticon, a Founders Fund event known for celebrating unconventional ideas. This proved a fitting introduction, given the potential for controversy surrounding Sadeghi’s work.

Nucleus IQ and the Debate Around Genetic Intelligence

Last year, Nucleus launched Nucleus IQ, a service assessing the correlation between an individual’s genetics and markers associated with high intelligence. Sadeghi emphasizes the limitations of this assessment, acknowledging the incomplete understanding of the gene-IQ connection and the significant role of environmental factors.

The accuracy of Nucleus’s IQ tests was questioned by geneticist Sasha Gusev, prompting a detailed response from Sadeghi. Concerns were also raised regarding potential discrimination and stigmatization. Notably, 23andMe deliberately refrained from releasing similar intelligence-related genetic information in 2018, citing fears of misinterpretation.

Empowering Consumers with Genetic Information

However, both Sadeghi and Asparouhov advocate for providing individuals with comprehensive access to their genetic information. Asparouhov finds the reluctance surrounding Nucleus IQ “very odd,” drawing a parallel to the acceptance of genetic advantages in athletic performance. He believes consumers should be empowered to interpret the data themselves.

Continuous Improvement Through Data Acquisition

As Nucleus expands its customer base, Asparouhov anticipates increasingly refined insights. The platform will automatically update with new data, potentially incorporating phenotypic information – such as eye color, hair color, and IQ test results – to further enhance the predictive model.

When questioned about the potential for eugenic interpretations of linking physical traits and IQ, Asparouhov jokingly clarified, “I said brown hair!” He then playfully mimicked a gesture made by Elon Musk, expressing sympathy.