Bactolife Secures $35 Million in Series B Funding to Advance Binding Protein Commercialization

Key Takeaways

Bactolife has secured over €30 million ($35 million) in Series B funding to commercialize binding proteins targeting gut health.
The startup plans to launch its first products in the US this year, followed by expansions into Asia and Europe.
Binding proteins are designed to selectively eliminate harmful metabolites from the gut without disrupting beneficial bacteria.

Funding and Product Launch

Bactolife, a Danish startup focused on gut health, has raised over €30 million ($35 million) in a Series B funding round led by Cross Border Impact Ventures (CBIV) and the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO). Existing investors, including Novo Holdings and Athos, also participated. This funding will support the launch of Bactolife’s initial products under the ‘Helm’ brand in the United States in 2023, with plans for further expansion into Asian and European markets in the coming years.

CEO Sebastian Søderberg stated that the investment will facilitate human clinical studies and aid the commercialization of ingredients for both dietary supplements and animal feed additives.

The Science Behind Binding Proteins

Bactolife is pioneering the use of binding proteins, which selectively capture metabolites produced by harmful gut microbes, allowing them to be expelled without disrupting the microbiome. This approach contrasts with traditional probiotics, which add beneficial bacteria, and prebiotics, which nourish them. Unlike antibiotics, which kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria, Bactolife’s binding proteins are more precise in targeting unhealthy microbes.

The startup’s technology is inspired by IgG fragments found in the milk of camelids, which are known to enhance immune health. Instead of extracting these proteins from camel milk, Bactolife uses engineered microbes for their mass production through precision fermentation.

Market Strategy and Regulatory Approvals

Bactolife anticipates achieving self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status for its first two binding proteins in the first quarter of the year. Subsequent submissions for regulatory approval in the EU and Asia are planned. Bactolife aims to partner with various commercial entities in the dietary supplement and healthcare practitioner segments, focusing on both standalone products and formulations that incorporate other gut health ingredients.

The company is currently conducting human clinical studies in the US, starting with healthy populations, with additional trials planned in the UK. Manufacturing capabilities have been established with global partners to ensure scalable production.

Addressing Gut Health Challenges

Binding proteins represent a novel concept for consumers, but awareness of gut health is increasing. Many people are familiar with issues like “leaky gut” and the impact of harmful bacteria. Bactolife aims to target specific demographics, including travelers, stressed individuals, and the elderly, who are at higher risk for gut health issues.

One of the first binding proteins will target those with compromised gut health, such as individuals recently on antibiotics and elderly patients in care facilities.

A Unique Solution for Gut Rebalancing

Unlike probiotics, which may not be suitable for all food applications, the binding proteins are stable under heat and varying pH levels, making them applicable across diverse food and supplement products. Effective in low doses (100-200 milligrams), they are also vegan-friendly, allergen-free, and lactose-free.

Liz Spence, the US general manager, highlighted the role of binding proteins as a preventive measure for gut health. Bactolife encourages consumers to consider these products during periods of potential gut stress, such as travel or illness, to help maintain gut balance. This innovative approach positions binding proteins as a crucial addition to current gut health solutions.

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