Bildnachweis: mbiomics, MIG Capital.
mbiomics, based in Neuried near Munich, is pursuing an innovative ‘microbiome engineering’ approach. The company leverages state-of-the-art analytical techniques to precisely develop bacterial consortia with targeted therapeutic effects against diseases. In doing so, mbiomics aims to open new avenues of treatment.
Using a patented analytics platform, mbiomics selectively identifies bacterial consortia that address specific diseases – such as in the field of immuno-oncology or inflammatory bowel conditions. High-precision fluorescence microscopy-based analysis is used to determine the molecular composition of the gut microbiome. ‘The technology not only supports the selection and development of suitable microbial compositions, but also the monitoring of patient groups in clinical studies,’ says Dr Johannes B. Woehrstein, Founder and CEO of mbiomics.
Rapidly growing market
Since March 2023, mbiomics has raised a series A financing round totalling EUR 18 million, led by MIG Capital AG, Bayern Kapital, and High-Tech Gründerfonds. The funding is being used to build the platform, select initial product candidates, and expand research activities – both in Munich and, in the future, also in the United States. ‘The microbiome field is attracting investors because it offers enormous market potential across healthcare, consumer goods, and agriculture, while also addressing important medical needs with novel therapies and diagnostics,’ explains Dr Fei Tian of MIG Capital AG. ‘Advances in genomics, AI, and synthetic biology are driving innovation, while growing regulatory clarity and strong intellectual property are increasing investment security. With increasing M&A activity and capital market interest, the field aligns well with trends such as personalised medicine in biotechnology, and despite certain risks, offers attractive growth opportunities,’ adds Tian.
Clinical phase in 2026
The therapeutic product is based on the identification and combination of more than 100 non-genetically modified bacterial strains from healthy donors into functional consortia that could have cross-indication effectiveness. Currently, mbiomics does not have any publicly named asset in clinical testing. The company is nevertheless following a structured product development pipeline. The series A financing was initially intended to further build the internal platform and to develop a specific bacterial consortium lead candidate for immuno-oncology. ‘With this lead candidate, we aim to begin phase Ib clinical trials in the USA by the end of 2026, followed by an expansion of the pipeline into further indications,’ says Woehrstein.
Series B financing planned
mbiomics’ technology targets the market for microbiome-based therapeutics, particularly live biotherapeutic products (LBPs). This market is on the cusp of massive growth. According to Market Research Future, the global microbiome therapeutics market is projected to grow to USD 10 billion to 15 billion by 2030, with annual growth rates (CAGR) of over 20%. mbiomics is currently planning a significant series B financing round. ‘We are deliberately addressing tech investors, including those in the USA,’ Woehrstein emphasises, as the company is consciously focusing on its AI-powered TechBio platform rather than a traditional life sciences company. The new capital will support further development of the platform and data analytics, GMP production, and the execution of clinical trials.
