Singapore-based biotech startup ArrowBiome has successfully raised USD 1 million in seed funding from Cocoon Capital. This investment will accelerate the development and commercialization of ArrowBiome’s innovative microbiome management solutions, which precisely target specific bacterial strains.

ArrowBiome utilizes lysins, proteins evolved by bacteriophages, to selectively eliminate harmful bacteria. Bacteriophages are viruses that infect and replicate within bacteria, often destroying their hosts. By engineering and producing lysins in the lab, ArrowBiome achieves precise bacterial targeting, with initial applications in treating acne and body odor. The technology has demonstrated significant efficacy and selectivity across multiple bacterial strains.

The company’s proprietary technology addresses a critical need in microbiome management. Current treatments often lack specificity, affecting both beneficial and harmful bacteria, disrupting the natural microbiome balance, and potentially leading to antibiotic resistance. ArrowBiome’s targeted approach maintains a healthy microbiome balance while minimizing adverse side effects by impacting only harmful bacteria.

ArrowBiome plans to offer its solutions to personal care companies, specialty chemical manufacturers, and other businesses in the cosmeceutical industry. Their platform technology allows for over 100 times lower doses of active ingredients compared to current market products, achieving the same effectiveness with minimal side effects.

The global market potential for ArrowBiome’s skin care solutions is significant. Acne affects approximately 85% of teenagers and young adults worldwide, while only 2% of people have armpits that never smell, highlighting the demand for more effective deodorant solutions. The US and EU are the largest markets for deodorants, presenting considerable growth opportunities.

The seed funding from Cocoon Capital will be directed towards research and development, clinical validation, establishing more commercial partnerships, and positioning the company as a leader in microbiome management. Dr. Boon Chong Goh, Founder and CEO of ArrowBiome, stated, “We are thrilled to advance our technology and offer innovative solutions to our partners seeking precise microbiome management. This funding marks a significant milestone in our journey to become a global leader in microbiome management.”

Will Klippgen, Managing Partner at Cocoon Capital and newly appointed member of ArrowBiome’s board of directors, added, “ArrowBiome’s groundbreaking approach to microbiome management addresses a critical need in the market. We are excited to support their growth and look forward to seeing their innovative solutions improve global health by launching a sustainable way of killing bacteria.”

As ArrowBiome focuses initially on skin-related applications, the company also plans to develop solutions for gut microbiome and antimicrobial resistance, further expanding its impact in the field of microbiome management.