Nucleus Genomics Raises $14M Series A to Expand Genetic Testing
- Nucleus Genomics has raised a $14 million Series A, bringing its total funding to $32 million.
- Backers include Founders Fund, Alexis Ohanian’s Seven Seven Six, Balaji Srinivasan, and SpaceX alum Achal Upadhyaya.
- Nucleus offers genetic sequencing for $400, compared with the $1 million cost in 2007.
- Founder Kian Sadeghi predicts genome sequencing will become nearly free and widely accessible via smartphones.
Nucleus Genomics Raises $14M Series A
Nucleus Genomics, a controversial genetics testing startup, has secured a $14 million Series A funding round, bringing its total funding to approximately $32 million.
Investors include Founders Fund, Alexis Ohanian’s Seven Seven Six, Balaji Srinivasan, and SpaceX alum Achal Upadhyaya. The round backs founder Kian Sadeghi’s vision of making genetic testing widely accessible.
How Nucleus Genomics’ Genetic Testing Platform Works
Nucleus Genomics allows users to sequence their DNA from a saliva sample and compare the results with extensive genetic health data. Founders Fund partner Delian Asparouhov used Nucleus’ dashboard to analyze his genetic predispositions, discovering risks for schizophrenia, a high IQ, and prostate cancer within seconds.
Sadeghi envisions genetic data driving personalized medicine. He has also described couples screening their DNA before having children and dating apps offering “kid simulations” that predict potential offspring’s genetic traits.
“DNA is actually the kind of ultimate health test,” Sadeghi said, adding that Nucleus currently analyzes over 800 conditions, a number set to grow rapidly.
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Nucleus Genomics Offers $400 Genome Sequencing
The cost of genome sequencing has fallen from nearly $1 million in 2007 to $400. Nucleus says its $400 service covers both sequencing and analysis.
Sadeghi predicts that in five years, genome sequencing will be practically free, making personal DNA data as accessible as a smartphone app.
The Founder’s Motivation
The startup’s mission is personal for Sadeghi. He was driven to create Nucleus after his cousin died from an undiagnosed genetic condition.
His journey led him to Silicon Valley investors, including Peter Thiel, whom he met at Hereticon, a gathering known for embracing controversial ideas.
Edited by Harshajit Sarmah
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