Nucleus Genomics Launches Embryo Ranking Service

Nucleus Genomics introduced a $5,999 service on Wednesday that enables prospective parents to evaluate embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF), ranking them based on projected IQ, height, eye color, and nearly 900 health-related traits before making implantation decisions.

The New York-based startup analyzes whole-genome data from partner laboratories to create “polygenic” risk scores. It then presents this information through a dashboard, which displays each embryo’s predicted intelligence, physical characteristics, and lifespan, along with probabilities for major health concerns like cancer and Alzheimer’s. Although the company notes that these trait forecasts are probabilistic—especially with IQ predictions cited as “limited in accuracy”—founder and CEO Kian Sadeghi, 25, believes parents should have this additional information.

“The longevity movement is really about empowering individuals with their healthcare decisions,” Sadeghi explained. “Why shouldn’t that apply to such a deeply personal and emotional choice as selecting your child?”

Traditional pre-implantation assessments look for chromosomal issues, such as Down syndrome, or single-gene disorders like Tay-Sachs. Nucleus, however, goes much further, utilizing algorithms to analyze hundreds or even thousands of genetic variants to predict future characteristics.

In his announcement video, Sadeghi remarked, “This is the first time a company has openly collaborated with couples to enhance their embryos based on intelligence.” He added, “Nucleus Embryo is designed for IVF couples to access the complete profile of each embryo on a single, user-friendly platform. You can explore your child’s health, appearance, and overall wellbeing. An interesting feature, if I may add, is that you can name your embryos and jot down notes for those you prefer.”

The company does not perform embryo biopsies itself; instead, it partners with Genomic Prediction, a clinical lab that has screened 120,000 embryos globally for IVF clinics and assessed disease scores for around 5,000 of them, according to Chief Scientific Officer Nathan Treff.

Sadeghi does not see a clear distinction between adults taking DNA tests for personal health insights and parents screening embryos for longevity. “It’s essentially the same motivation,” he stated. “It revolves around the desire for a longer, healthier life.”

This service has caught the attention of those interested in longevity, with Sadeghi regularly speaking at conferences focused on aging research and collaborating with well-known “biohacker” Bryan Johnson on his “Don’t Die” events. Competitor Orchid Health offers similar genetic evaluations for approximately $12,500 for five embryos.

Dr. Paula Amato, a fertility expert at Oregon Health & Science University, expressed concern that an embryo ranking system might lead to a societal preference for specific types of children, but she acknowledged that the choice rests with the patients. “I won’t stop them,” she said.

Meanwhile, Sadeghi views the selection of embryos as part of his broader mission to enhance human longevity. “Lifespan has significantly increased over the past 150 years,” he suggested. “Utilizing DNA testing to predict and mitigate chronic diseases could help us achieve this again.”

Neither Nucleus Genomics nor Genomic Prediction provided immediate comments upon request.