Holobiome

Holobiome is a biotechnology company based in Boston that specializes in harnessing the potential of the human gut microbiome to develop products that can improve overall health and well-being. The company's core focus lies in understanding the intricate relationship between gut bacteria and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. By identifying specific gut bacteria that communicate with the brain via neurotransmitters, Holobiome aims to develop food and beverage ingredients that can interact with these bacteria, ultimately influencing mental well-being.

In January 2022, Holobiome partnered with Unilever to identify prebiotic ingredients that can support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria linked to the production of calming neurotransmitters. The long-term goal of this collaboration is to incorporate these ingredients into Unilever's food and refreshment products, enabling consumers to naturally boost levels of calming neurotransmitters in their gut.

Holobiome's platform is powered by its Microbiome Vault, a continuously growing strain collection that aims to be a comprehensive library of all known human gut bacteria. This vault is sourced from microbiome samples obtained from over 9,000 healthy human donors worldwide. The company deeply profiles these bacteria to understand their functions and impact on human biology, enabling a data-driven approach to developing targeted solutions.

Holobiome's lead program focuses on a specific strain of human gut bacteria that may combat depression by targeting the gut-brain axis. Additionally, the company has ongoing discovery programs exploring the potential of the microbiome in addressing constipation and pain.

Key customers and partnerships

In March 2023, Holobiome announced a research collaboration with Johnson & Johnson Consumer Inc. to develop next-generation probiotics and prebiotics aimed at supporting infant and maternal immune health. This partnership marks Holobiome's entry into the early-life microbiome arena, recognizing the critical role gut bacteria play in immune system and nervous system development from birth.

Holobiome has also established partnerships with prominent companies like Unilever, as mentioned earlier, to explore the potential of microbiome-based solutions in various industries, including food and beverage.