Low‑cost alternative capture step for protein purification (seeking early pilot collaborations)
A novel capture purification technology designed as a lower-cost alternative to traditional affinity resin-based primary recovery for recombinant proteins and biologics. Format-flexible and integrable into existing downstream processing workflows, or used as the foundation for simpler, streamlined purification trains.
Affinity resin costs represent one of the largest single cost contributors in biologics DSP, often accounting for 30–50% of total purification cost. For early-stage programmes, CDMOs, and producers outside large-scale mammalian infrastructure, this is a significant barrier. A cost-effective alternative capture step could meaningfully reduce cost of goods and enable manufacturing routes currently not economically viable.
The technology replaces conventional affinity ligands with an alternative capture mechanism that retains selectivity across protein formats including antibody-based molecules. Hardware-agnostic and compatible with standard chromatography equipment, minimising integration burden for partners.
Conceptual stage. Core mechanism designed and rationale validated. Now seeking early pilot collaborators to advance proof-of-concept experimental work.
Looking for biopharma companies, CDMOs, or protein producers willing to co-develop and validate the technology against a defined protein target. Engagement would involve jointly scoping a pilot experiment and agreeing evaluation criteria.
About 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.
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