Nucleus Genomics Criticism: Embryo Testing Startup Faces Backlash

Nucleus Genomics and the Emerging Landscape of Embryo Genetic Testing

Founded in 2021 by 25-year-old Kian Sadeghi, Nucleus Genomics began as a genetic testing startup focused on assessing a patient’s predisposition to certain diseases.

However, the company has faced ongoing scrutiny due to products asserting a correlation between an individual’s genetics and multifaceted traits, notably intelligence.

Controversial New Product: Nucleus Embryo

On Wednesday, Nucleus Genomics significantly escalated the debate with the unveiling of Nucleus Embryo, announced via Twitter with the statement: “Every parent desires to provide their children with greater opportunities than they themselves had. Nucleus now introduces a novel instrument to further that aspiration.”

The company claims the ability to analyze IVF embryos for not only established genes linked to illnesses like breast cancer, but also for physical characteristics – including sex, height, hair color, and eye color – alongside complex attributes such as IQ, anxiety, and ADHD.

A demonstration video showcased a comparative menu, suggesting a tool to aid parents in embryo selection, potentially leading to the discarding of others.

Existing Genetic Testing in IVF

Genetic testing of embryos is not a novel practice. IVF physicians routinely screen for genes associated with conditions like Down syndrome.

Testing is also performed when parents are known to be at high risk of passing on specific genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis.

The Use of Polygenic Scores

Nucleus Genomics differentiates itself by employing controversial polygenic scores to assess “complex genetic outcomes, like intelligence and anxiety,” as stated by a company spokesperson.

The National Human Genome Research Institute clarifies that polygenic scores calculate probabilities of complex illnesses occurring, primarily within populations.

These scores indicate relative risk, unlike identifying a specific gene mutation – such as BRCA1 – which carries a defined “absolute risk” of breast cancer.

Limitations and Current Medical Practice

Doctors generally do not utilize these tests for individual assessments. The NHGR explains that “Polygenic risk scores are not yet routinely used by health professionals because there are no guidelines for practice and researchers are still improving how these scores are generated.”

Nucleus maintains its methodology can determine individual risk, referencing a 2018 study validating methods for coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, type 2 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, and breast cancer.

This research focused on screenings to inform lifestyle or therapeutic choices, aligning with Nucleus’s original intent.

Public Reaction and Concerns

Wednesday’s announcement, implying the potential for “designer babies,” garnered over 4 million views and numerous comments expressing disbelief or ethical concerns.

One venture capitalist commented, expressing profound discomfort with the implications of the technology.

Previous Controversy and Funding

Nucleus Genomics has encountered similar criticism before, notably following the announcement of its $14 million Series A funding round earlier this year.

The startup is supported by Founders Fund, 776 (Alexis Ohanian’s firm), and angel investors including Adrian Aoun, Brent Saunders, and Matteo Franceschetti.

Last year, the launch of Nucleus IQ – a product claiming to assess the genetic influence on intelligence – was widely criticized as “bad science and big business,” prompting a detailed defense from Sadeghi.

However, providing genetic intelligence assessments to adults differs significantly from enabling IVF parents to select for specific traits in their children, according to many observers.

Partnerships and Data Access

Currently, Nucleus Genomics does not directly conduct these tests through IVF lab partnerships. It collaborates with Genomic Prediction, which works with IVF clinics.

A Genomic Prediction executive stated that while parents often inquire about intelligence testing, it is not offered. Parents can voluntarily submit genetic data to Nucleus for analysis.

As Sadeghi stated in the launch video, referencing the historical acceptance of IVF: “What was once controversial is now an everyday practice. The same is true with genetic optimization. The technology is now here and it’s here to stay.”