HERlab

HERlab is a synthetic biology company that develops advanced microbial platforms to overcome challenges in protein discovery and production. By utilizing machine learning and a vast library of unconventional host microorganisms, the company's platform matches specific proteins to their ideal expression machinery. This approach enables the discovery and optimization of production systems for proteins, small molecules, and glycans that are often difficult to develop using standard industrial models. The company focuses on streamlining the expression and validation phases of bioproduction to improve scalability and efficiency.

The company's work addresses significant bottlenecks in precision fermentation, where reliance on a limited number of standard yeast hosts often results in prohibitively high production costs. By unlocking the potential of non-conventional yeasts, HERlab aims to lower expenses related to feedstock, purification, and genetic engineering. These capabilities are intended to facilitate more accessible and sustainable production of biomolecules, including food ingredients, vitamins, and chemicals, supporting the transition away from resource-intensive animal-based production methods. HERlab was founded in 2022 and has participated in accelerator programs such as Katapult to advance its climate and industrial biotechnology solutions.