Latest news with #NucleusEmbryo
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Nucleus Genomics Launches Nucleus Embryo, Genetic Optimization Software Alongside Partnership with Genomic Prediction
Parents pursuing IVF now have a new level of choice to empower their family planning NEW YORK, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With U.S. birthrates plummeting and IVF on the rise, Nucleus Genomics today launched Nucleus Embryo, the first genetic optimization software that lets parents see and understand a complete genetic profile to select an embryo. "Before there's a heartbeat, there's DNA," said Kian Sadeghi, founder and CEO of Nucleus. "One file containing DNA and genetic markers can tell you more about your baby's future than any other test a doctor could possibly run at this stage. Most clinics stop at whether an embryo will develop. For many parents, that's not enough. Patients have long asked for more transparency from clinics, and Nucleus Embryo is an important step toward complete data ownership for parents planning their families." The software enables parents to analyze and compare up to 20 embryos across over 900 hereditary conditions and 40 additional analyses beyond basic viability, spanning cancers, chronic conditions, appearance, cognitive ability, mental health, and more. To widen access to the software, Nucleus will partner with Genomic Prediction, the first company to offer genome-wide screening on embryos. The partnership sets a new standard in genetic medicine, continuing Genomic Prediction's decade-long history of giving hopeful parents the best possible chance of implanting healthy embryos. The company's analyses focus on hereditary conditions, acting as the first line of defense against chronic and rare diseases. "As an organization, we are committed to supporting patients' rights to their DNA and any information that can aid in their family-building journey," said Kelly Ketterson, CEO of Genomic Prediction. "We have a legacy of innovation aimed at providing patients with access to the best scientific resources. Our partnership with Nucleus opens access to information our patients have requested and allows us to uphold our commitment to this legacy." Nucleus' partnership with Genomic Prediction reflects a growing shift in how parents think about genetics as a tool to give children the best possible start in life. A wide-ranging study of Americans found the majority accepted the use of genetic technology to choose embryos based on health and personality traits. Four in 10 parents would use genetic optimization as another tool to understand their future child's cognitive abilities. Most women undergo three to six IVF cycles before successfully having a baby, with each cycle costing up to $25,000. Many embryos are unviable within days of being fertilized, leaving parents with few to choose from. Facing high stakes, clinicians often recommend genetic testing to optimize a couple's chances of a healthy pregnancy. But these tests typically stop at a select number of hereditary conditions and chromosome count. Now, advanced genetic analysis from Nucleus gives parents a new window into the health and well-being of their future child. Nucleus Embryo provides a comprehensive genetic profile for each embryo, encompassing hereditary genetic diseases, like cystic fibrosis and hemochromatosis, alongside genetic measures of cognitive ability, mental health, and risk for chronic diseases. Wide access to genetic insights for embryos can also help extend lifespan from the earliest stages of life. While more than half of all deaths annually in the U.S. are attributed to chronic, age-related conditions — such as Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease — research shows embryonic selection can materially help reduce disease risk for these conditions. "We celebrate health optimization and the pursuit of longevity in every other part of life via our focus on training, supplements, and sleep," Sadeghi said. "We all know health isn't just the absence of disease. It's the ability to understand our bodies and genetic makeup to reach our full potential. Now we can apply this principle to life's inception." About Nucleus Genomics Nucleus builds software for generational health. Inspired by the loss of his cousin who died of a rare — yet preventable — genetic disease, Nucleus founder and Thiel Fellow Kian Sadeghi left an Ivy League university to build a product that could have saved her life. Our advanced DNA health test and analysis takes the guesswork out of your health, whether it's perfecting your protocols, knowing your risk for cancer, or planning for a healthy family. Follow us on social media @nucleusgenomics. About Genomic Prediction Genomic Prediction, Inc. is the frontrunner in advanced embryo screening. Our proprietary LifeView platform is state-of-the-art technology that assesses embryos for genetic health aimed at improved IVF outcomes. The LifeView Embryo Health Score Test (EHS) offers insight into the likelihood of developing conditions driven by multiple genes. It tests for significant health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, certain cancers, and mental health conditions. The EHS results are derived from the same embryo sample used in the following PGT tests: PGT-A: Identifies chromosome abnormalities in embryos. PGT-A+: Pinpoints the origin (paternal, maternal, or embryonic) of chromosome abnormalities. PGT-M: Decreases the chances of passing on monogenic (single-gene) conditions. PGT-SR: Detects chromosome abnormalities and structural imbalances, providing clarity between normal and balanced chromosomes. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Nucleus
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
IVF parents are spending thousands to predict their babies' chances of having Alzheimer's, cancer and heart disease
Maybe she's born with it, maybe it's … genetic optimization? Prospective parents using in vitro fertilization (IVF) will soon be able to select embryos based on their potential risk for diseases — including illnesses that develop later in life — thanks to a groundbreaking $5,999 service announced this week by a US biotech company. 'Before there's a heartbeat, there's DNA,' Kian Sadeghi, founder and chief executive of Nucleus Genomics, said in a statement. 'One file containing DNA and genetic markers can tell you more about your baby's future than any other test a doctor could possibly run at this stage.' The popular fertility treatment involves removing eggs from a woman's ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a lab. The resulting embryo — which could be frozen or fresh — is placed into the uterus, where it hopefully implants in the uterine wall and sparks a pregnancy. Before implantation, many IVF clinics already screen embryos for genetic abnormalities — such as extra chromosomes or gene mutations — that can lead to failed implantations, miscarriages, birth defects or inherited disorders. But the first-of-its-kind service from Nucleus Genomics takes things a step further. The company just launched Nucleus Embryo, a new software platform that lets potential parents dig deep into the full genetic blueprint of their embryos before choosing which one to implant. The tool lets IVF patients compare the DNA of up to 20 embryos, screening them for more than 900 conditions — including Alzheimer's, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and several forms of cancer. It doesn't stop there. The program also flags potential mental health conditions like depression and schizophrenia and even ranks cognitive traits like IQ. Parents can also get a look at cosmetic and physical features, from height, baldness and BMI to eye and hair color. The company isn't promising perfection. Instead, the software generates a so-called polygenic risk score that will give parents the probability of how likely it is an embryo might develop certain traits or diseases. Ultimately, it's up to the parents to decide which qualities matter most to them. For those looking to decode the results, genetic counseling sessions are available. 'Lifespan has dramatically increased in the last 150 years,' Sadeghi told the Wall Street Journal. 'DNA testing to predict and reduce chronic disease can make it happen again.' The practice, known as polygenic embryo screening, is already highly controversial in the medical world, according to a report published by Harvard Law School's Petrie-Flom Center. Critics warn that allowing parents to screen embryos for risks like depression or diabetes could deepen stigma and discrimination against people living with those conditions. Meanwhile, disability advocates argue it promotes the harmful idea that disability is something to be fixed, not a natural part of human diversity. And when it comes to choosing embryos for traits like intelligence or athleticism, critics say we're sliding into designer baby territory — a modern form of eugenics that favors the rich, reinforcing social and healthcare inequalities. Still, the public appears open to some aspects of the tech. A 2023 survey found that 77% of Americans support using it to screen embryos for the likelihood of developing certain physical conditions, while 72% back screening for mental health risks. Proponents argue it's no different from vaccination — a preventive tool, not a judgment on those with the condition. But when it comes to non-medical traits, support drops fast: only 36% back screening embryos for behavioral traits and just 30% for physical features like height or eye color.
New York Post
a day ago
- Health
- New York Post
IVF parents are spending thousands to predict their babies' chances of having Alzheimer's, cancer and heart disease
Maybe she's born with it, maybe it's … genetic optimization? Prospective parents using in vitro fertilization (IVF) will soon be able to select embryos based on their potential risk for diseases — including illnesses that develop later in life — thanks to a groundbreaking $5,999 service announced this week by a US biotech company. 'Before there's a heartbeat, there's DNA,' Kian Sadeghi, founder and chief executive of Nucleus Genomics, said in a statement. 'One file containing DNA and genetic markers can tell you more about your baby's future than any other test a doctor could possibly run at this stage.' 4 Supporters say screening could prevent chronic illness, but critics warn it may fuel stigma and inequality. New Africa – What is IVF? The popular fertility treatment involves removing eggs from a woman's ovaries and fertilizing them with sperm in a lab. The resulting embryo — which could be frozen or fresh — is placed into the uterus, where it hopefully implants in the uterine wall and sparks a pregnancy. Before implantation, many IVF clinics already screen embryos for genetic abnormalities — such as extra chromosomes or gene mutations — that can lead to failed implantations, miscarriages, birth defects or inherited disorders. But the first-of-its-kind service from Nucleus Genomics takes things a step further. Build-a-baby The company just launched Nucleus Embryo, a new software platform that lets potential parents dig deep into the full genetic blueprint of their embryos before choosing which one to implant. 4 The number of Americans using IVF has skyrocketed over the last decade. – The tool lets IVF patients compare the DNA of up to 20 embryos, screening them for more than 900 conditions — including Alzheimer's, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and several forms of cancer. It doesn't stop there. The program also flags potential mental health conditions like depression and schizophrenia and even ranks cognitive traits like IQ. Parents can also get a look at cosmetic and physical features, from height, baldness and BMI to eye and hair color. The company isn't promising perfection. Instead, the software generates a so-called polygenic risk score that will give parents the probability of how likely it is an embryo might develop certain traits or diseases. 4 Many IVF clinics already screen for certain genetic risk factors, like an abnormal number of chromosomes. Charlize Davids/ – Ultimately, it's up to the parents to decide which qualities matter most to them. For those looking to decode the results, genetic counseling sessions are available. 'Lifespan has dramatically increased in the last 150 years,' Sadeghi told the Wall Street Journal. 'DNA testing to predict and reduce chronic disease can make it happen again.' A new era of reproductive tech The practice, known as polygenic embryo screening, is already highly controversial in the medical world, according to a report published by Harvard Law School's Petrie-Flom Center. Critics warn that allowing parents to screen embryos for risks like depression or diabetes could deepen stigma and discrimination against people living with those conditions. Meanwhile, disability advocates argue it promotes the harmful idea that disability is something to be fixed, not a natural part of human diversity. And when it comes to choosing embryos for traits like intelligence or athleticism, critics say we're sliding into designer baby territory — a modern form of eugenics that favors the rich, reinforcing social and healthcare inequalities. 4 Few Americans approve of using the technology to predict traits unrelated to disease. Gemyful – Still, the public appears open to some aspects of the tech. A 2023 survey found that 77% of Americans support using it to screen embryos for the likelihood of developing certain physical conditions, while 72% back screening for mental health risks. Proponents argue it's no different from vaccination — a preventive tool, not a judgment on those with the condition. But when it comes to non-medical traits, support drops fast: only 36% back screening embryos for behavioral traits and just 30% for physical features like height or eye color.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
New IVF technology allows parents to decide how their child will look: All you need to know about it
Image credits: Getty Images Being able to carry your child and bring them into the world is a special feeling that many describe as life-changing. However, many women are not able to experience this event due to physical and health reasons. The technology of In-vitro fertilization, also known as "test-tube babies" was invented in the late 1970s and 1970s to help women struggling to conceive. The first IVF baby was born in 1978 and was named Louise Brown. Until recently, IVF involved the fertilization of an egg with a sperm in a lab and then transferring the resulting embryo into the woman's uterus. But now, a new IVF technology allows parents to decide the genetic makeup of their child. Yes, Nucleus Genomics, a US-based DNA testing and analysis company has announced the world's first genetic optimization software that "helps parents pursuing IVF see and understand the complete genetic profile of each of their embryos." Why does this technology matter? Image credits: Getty Images The technology can be really impactful as according to the company it can analyse the genetic makeup of embryos to test for up to 900 conditions including diabetes, cancer and heart disease. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo Thus, by choosing embryos with the lowest risk profiles, parents can ensure the longevity of their child's life and ensure that they are healthy. "Nucleus Embryo is the first-ever genetic optimization software that helps parents give their children the best possible start in life—long before they're even born," said the company on X. How will the process take place? Image credits: Getty Images If you are prospective parents interested in getting their embryos analysed then you can upload up to 20 embryo DNA files from your IVF clinics for over 900 genetic analyses. After the analysis is completed, the company will provide the clients with a detailed report showing the results. "Sort, compare, and choose your embryos based on what matters most to you," said the company. The analyses not only include health conditions but also cognitive ability, mental health risks such as depression and anxiety disorders, BMI and even IQ-related markers. Additionally, demo pictures shared by the company also show that the parents will be able to decide the child's eye and hair colour as well. Should you do it? Image credits: Getty Images The practice raises ethical concerns about choosing embryos based on probabilities but Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder of the company said to the Wall Street Journal that he finds no distinction between people using DNA tests to understand their own risks and those screening embryos to select one that is likely to have a longer life. "It is the same underlying motivation," Sadeghi said. "It is about living a longer, healthier life." "The longevity movement is about taking medicine back and putting it in the people's hands," he added. "Why would that not apply now to the most intimate, personal, emotional, sensitive decision you will make? Picking your baby." One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Newsweek
3 days ago
- Health
- Newsweek
Parents Can Choose Genetic Makeup of Their Children With New IVF Option
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A U.S.-based biotech company has unveiled a new in vitro fertilization (IVF) option that allows parents to select embryos based on genetic markers tied to health and longevity. DNA testing and analysis company Nucleus Genomics has announced the world's first genetic optimization software that "helps parents pursuing IVF see and understand the complete genetic profile of each of their embryos." Why It Matters The company says it can analyze the genetic makeup of embryos to test for up to 900 conditions including diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. By choosing embryos with the lowest risk profiles, parents can theoretically boost their children's chances of living longer and healthier lives. But the practice also raises ethical concerns about choosing embryos based on probabilities. "Nucleus Embryo is the first-ever genetic optimization software that helps parents give their children the best possible start in life—long before they're even born," the company said on X, formerly Twitter. Composite image of a fetus and the brain. Composite image of a fetus and the brain. Getty/Newsweek What To Know Prospective parents can upload up to 20 embryo DNA files from their IVF clinics for over 900 genetic analyses spanning cancers, chronic conditions, appearance, cognitive ability, mental health, and other conditions. The company then provides clients with a detailed report, which shows their embryo's results. "Sort, compare, and choose your embryos based on what matters most to you," Nucleus Genomics said. Demo pictures of the process provided by the company shows that the tests will also reveal what eye color and hair color the child is likely to have. A screengrab from Nucleus Genomics showing an in vitro fertilization option that allows parents to select embryos based on genetic markers tied to health and longevity. A screengrab from Nucleus Genomics showing an in vitro fertilization option that allows parents to select embryos based on genetic markers tied to health and longevity. Nucleus Genomics It tests for markers for common conditions like type 2 diabetes, coronary artery disease, and high blood pressure, and genetic contributions to various cancers (e.g., breast, colorectal, ovarian). It also covers mental health risks, such as depression and anxiety disorders, as well as physical traits like eye color, hair color, height, BMI, and even IQ-related markers. The test offers a comprehensive genetic profile, allowing prospective parents to compare multiple embryos on these different attributes before choosing one for implantation. "Life span has dramatically increased in the last 150 years," Kian Sadeghi, the company's founder and chief executive, told the Wall Street Journal. "DNA testing to predict and reduce chronic disease can make it happen again." The 25-year-old told the Journal he sees no distinction between individuals using DNA tests to understand their own risks and those screening and ranking embryos to select one likely to live a longer life. "It is the same underlying motivation," Sadeghi said. "It is about living a longer, healthier life." "The longevity movement is about taking medicine back and putting it in the people's hands," Sadeghi added. "Why would that not apply now to the most intimate, personal, emotional, sensitive decision you will make? Picking your baby." A screengrab of analysis by Nucleus Genomics showing a detailed report of prospective embryo results. A screengrab of analysis by Nucleus Genomics showing a detailed report of prospective embryo results. Nucleus Genomics What People Are Saying Nucleus said on its website announcing Nucleus Embryo: "My parents are immigrants from Iran who came to America with nothing but a conviction that me and my siblings would have more. But when my 15-year-old cousin suddenly died in her sleep from a preventable genetic disease, my family was powerless to save her. "My parents, grieving the loss of my cousin, were also terrified. What if my siblings and I were at the same risk? That was the first time I understood what generational health meant. "Our users don't just do Nucleus for themselves—they do it for themselves and their loved ones. Now, I'm proud to say that care can start before a child is even born." Other users on social media questioned the ethics of the technology. One thread, viewed more than 3 million times, said, "Holy s***. It's happening…you don't just pick a child. You rank them by longevity potential." Emma Waters, a policy analyst at The Heritage Foundation, responded to tweets about the project. "'I only wanted you because you were a girl and the right kind of healthy. I destroyed the other 19 human embryos that your father and I created.' "Don't worry, it's 'not eugenics,' it's only science." 'I only wanted you because you were a girl and the right kind of healthy. I destroyed the other 19 human embryos that your father and I created.' Don't worry, it's 'not eugenics,' it's only science. — Emma Waters (@emlwaters) June 5, 2025 Asked for her definition of eugenics, she said, "The selection or rejection of a living human being based on certain traits or conditions. I.e., choosing which embryos live and which ones are destroyed based on factors like health, sex, and IQ." What Happens Next Polygenic embryo screening is largely unregulated in the U.S., and it is likely to remain that way for the foreseeable future.
