About Us

Welcome to Intrinsic Genomics!


We help you understand what makes your DNA unique—and how to use that information to make smarter daily choices and feel your best.

For a long time, genomics insights were mostly available through expensive, cash only, specialty clinics. We believe this information should be accessible to everyone.

Intrinsic Genomics was founded by Maria Marsala Herlihy, a translational genomicist with over 35 years in data science. She began her career after completing an MS in Statistics and Operations Research at NYU, grew into an Executive Data Scientist, and has spent the last seven years focused on translational genomics — helping health coaches and clinicians turn DNA research into practical, everyday guidance for their clients.

Why Intrinsic Genomics exists


I’ve personally struggled with gastrointestinal issues, migraines, body aches, and inflammation since childhood. After having children, life became so hectic that I often ate whatever was convenient, without thinking about what it was or the quality of the food. Over time, I gradually gained weight to the point where I became obese and still didn’t understand how powerfully nutrition was affecting my health.
As an adult, I tried to do everything “right.” I followed the food pyramid, experimented with new nutrition advice, and committed to the popular diets, trending workouts, and recommended supplements. Still, I felt exhausted, frustrated, and stuck. The problem wasn’t that those plans were wrong — they just weren’t designed for my body.

For decades, I turned research into actionable decisions for executives. In 2015 I started researching genetic influences on my diet and I was astonished by how much of the science already existed — buried in thousands of peer-reviewed studies — to explain why my body responded the way it did. The problem was that this knowledge wasn’t reaching the people who needed it most.

That realization is why I started Intrinsic Genomics in 2023. My goal wasn’t to discover new science, but to make existing science understandable, personal, and actionable — so you can use it to make better

— Maria

 

We are not medical providers and we do not give medical advice. We also don’t claim to discover new genetic breakthroughs. Instead, we translate what the science already shows—by matching your DNA to results from hundreds of thousands of published studies—and turning it into clear, usable insights.

Our goal is simple: make genetics useful for real life. We translate your results into wellness recommendations—especially around food and metabolism—so you can feel better now and support healthy aging. For example, we may suggest shifting carbs earlier in the day or limiting them later in the evening, and we explain the genetic “why” behind the recommendation.

Thanks for joining the Intrinsic Genomics community. We’re excited to guide you on your journey.