Beverly Hills Fertility Partners with Nucleus Genomics Amid Ethical Concerns

Beverly Hills Fertility has become the first clinic to partner with Nucleus Genomics, introducing the company’s embryo genetic screening software to IVF patients. The move has drawn both interest and controversy, as the technology goes beyond established medical testing to explore predictions about traits and complex conditions.

What is Nucleus Embryo?

The company’s software, Nucleus Embryo, uses polygenic scores to evaluate embryos not only for potential health risks, but also for traits such as height, hair colour and predicted IQ.

This differs significantly from traditional embryo testing, which focuses on chromosomal abnormalities or specific single-gene conditions such as cystic fibrosis or BRCA1 mutations.

Scientific and Ethical Debate

Experts have raised concerns about the accuracy and appropriateness of using polygenic scores in clinical practice. The National Human Genome Research Institute has stated that polygenic risk scores are not yet routinely used by health professionals, due to the absence of standardised guidelines and ongoing questions about reliability.

The launch of Nucleus Embryo earlier this year generated widespread debate online. A promotional post by the company received over four million views and hundreds of critical comments, highlighting concerns about the potential for “designer baby” practices.

The Clinic’s Position

Despite the controversy, Beverly Hills Fertility believes the partnership will give patients greater choice.

Co-founder Dr Ellen Goldstein said:

“Patients pursuing IVF with Nucleus need an ethical physician who will personalise their care and ensure they have a safe cycle — that’s where Beverly Hills comes in.”

Kian Sadeghi, founder and CEO of Nucleus Genomics, added:

“We heard from thousands of parents following the launch of Nucleus Embryo. Beverly Hills Fertility saw this need to meet parents where they are, and we’re honoured to partner with a clinic so committed to advancing reproductive care.”

Looking Ahead

The partnership makes Beverly Hills Fertility the first member of Nucleus’s IVF+ Network, which aims to expand the use of polygenic screening in fertility treatment.

While some see this as an innovative step forward in reproductive medicine, others warn it raises complex questions about regulation, ethics and equality of access. The debate reflects a wider global conversation on how far technology should shape future generations.