In a significant development for the healthcare industry, Chicago-based 32 Biosciences has announced its emergence from stealth mode, unveiling a groundbreaking approach to gut microbiome medicine. The company, whose name is pronounced “Three Squared Biosciences,” aims to revolutionize healthcare by introducing new microbiome diagnostic management tools and microbiome-based interventions.
Addressing the Chronic Disease Challenge
Despite advancements in medical research and care, chronic diseases continue to pose a significant challenge to public health. While modern medicine has successfully extended human lifespan, it has not necessarily improved health-span. This disparity is partly attributed to a focus on treating illness rather than emphasizing preventive health. Moreover, scientists have identified modern dietary habits and widespread antibiotic use as factors disrupting the gut microbiome, an often overlooked yet crucial component of overall health.
The Gut Microbiome: The Sixth Vital Organ
The gut microbiome is increasingly recognized as a vital component of human health, sometimes referred to as the “sixth vital organ.” Dysbiosis, or disruption of this intricate system, can lead to systemic inflammation, increased infection risk, and a range of chronic diseases. Despite its importance, there are currently no universally standardized measures for assessing the functional health of the gut microbiome.
32 Biosciences’ Innovative Platform
To address this critical need, 32 Biosciences has developed a suite of gut microbiome platform technologies. Key among these is GB-0001, an advanced diagnostic management tool designed to provide a standardized measure of functional gut microbiome health. If approved, GB-0001 could have a direct impact on clinical decision-making, enabling healthcare professionals to monitor gut health while modifying medication and nutrition regimens to restore microbiome health.
In addition to GB-0001, the company is developing CS-0003, a lead therapeutic asset intended to target virulent gene expression while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. 32 Biosciences also plans to introduce science-based nutritional products aimed at restoring and maintaining functional gut microbiome health.
A New Approach to Medicine
Peter Farmakis, CEO of 32 Biosciences, emphasized the company’s innovative approach: “We are pioneering a new approach to medicine by leveraging our advanced microbiome scientific research to create clinically validated physician management tools for diagnosing and addressing dysbiosis—an important factor in the development of many diseases.”
The company’s strategy is twofold: to better serve patients who currently have limited FDA-approved options and to create significant financial value by addressing high unmet needs in large economic markets.
Scientific Foundations and Partnerships
32 Biosciences’ approach is built on research by scientific co-founders John Alverdy, MD, and Eugene Chang, MD, from The University of Chicago, and Joseph Pierre, PhD, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Their innovative microbiome research and development have been supported by an impressive $119 million in National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants.
The company has also forged strategic partnerships, collaborating with The University of Chicago Duchossois Family Institute to produce GB-0001 and The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering to develop CS-0003 technologies.
Looking Ahead
As 32 Biosciences steps into the spotlight, it brings with it the promise of a new era in gut microbiome medicine. By focusing on the critical role of the gut microbiome in overall well-being, the company aims to enhance health-span and revolutionize our approach to chronic disease prevention and treatment.
With its innovative technologies and strong scientific foundation, 32 Biosciences is poised to make a significant impact on the healthcare landscape, potentially offering new hope to millions of patients worldwide.
Read the press release