Revolutionizing Probiotics: Verb Biotics’ Innovative Approach

In the evolving landscape of microbiome health, many companies typically begin with a flagship strain to explore potential health benefits. However, microbiome health startup Verb Biotics is turning this model on its head, according to CEO Todd Beckman.

A Function-First Model

“We’re function-first, and we’re not tied into any one organism or flagship strain,” Beckman states. Having spent 13 years developing the consumer probiotics brand Goodbelly, he later transitioned to a strategic advisor role at synthetic biology firm Ginkgo Bioworks. This diverse background informs Verb Biotics’ unique strategy.

“Our model resembles a pharmaceutical approach,” he elaborates. “We start with a specific health indication, understand its mechanism of action, and develop biotic solutions aimed at achieving that health outcome.”

Precision Biotics: An Evolution

Launched in 2021 with $30 million funding from Viking Global Investors and Cascade Investment, Verb Biotics focuses on “precision biotics.” The company’s aim is to create biotics for foods and supplements that yield measurable effects.

Beckman notes that the company evaluates millions of microbial strains to identify candidates capable of producing beneficial metabolites. They are also pioneering synthetic biology techniques to engineer microbes that can effectively generate these metabolites.

Introducing Keystone Postbiotic

Verb Biotics’ inaugural product, Keystone Postbiotic, is a shelf-stable formulation made from heat-deactivated probiotics. One strain encourages the growth of foundational bacteria crucial for maintaining a healthy gut, while the other safeguards gut barrier integrity.

Unlike conventional probiotics, which are live organisms with limited application, postbiotics like Keystone can be integrated into a broader range of products without the need for refrigeration. “We ferment our two probiotic strains on oats and then heat-treat them for broader usability,” explains Beckman.

Eliminating Digestive Issues

Keystone Postbiotic is effective at low doses, encouraging easier incorporation into products like gummies and functional beverages. While typical prebiotic fibers may cause digestive discomfort at higher doses, Keystone is effective at just 300 mg, aiding in reducing gas and bloating.

This product is supported by pre-clinical data and a small pilot human trial that highlights its benefits for epithelial and immune health. A larger human trial is currently in progress, with results anticipated soon.

Unlocking Mood Benefits with GABA Probiotic

Verb Biotics’ second product, GABA Probiotic LP815, features a strain of Lactiplantibacillus capable of producing GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid), a neurotransmitter affecting mood, stress, and sleep.

“We screened various species and selected a strain that naturally produces significantly higher GABA levels,” Beckman explains. “With LP815, you experience a sustained release of GABA, unlike conventional supplements that provide a quick spike.”

The strain shows resilience through the digestive system, delivering GABA to the gut and demonstrating efficacy in human trials focused on mood and stress, with additional studies yielding promising results on canine behavior.

Exploring Opportunities in Designer Biotics

While its initial products are Non-GMO, Verb Biotics is also exploring genetically modified options, driven by shifting consumer interests. Beckman notes, “Surveys have shown that consumers prioritize efficacy over genetic modification.”

Discussions with major consumer packaged goods companies suggest a growing openness to genetically modified solutions. Beckman asserts, “We’re still in a strong position financially, and while we might consider additional funding, our operational capital remains robust.”

Future Directions

Verb Biotics is merely at the beginning of exploring what’s achievable in gut and brain health, along with other health domains like sleep, stress, aging, sports recovery, and women’s health during menopause.

Understanding Probiotics, Prebiotics, and More

WHAT ARE PROBIOTICS?
According to the World Health Organization, probiotics are “live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” These benefits are strain-specific.

WHAT ARE PREBIOTICS?
The International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics defines prebiotics as “a substrate that is selectively utilized by host microorganisms, conferring a health benefit.” They serve as nourishment for beneficial gut microbes.

WHAT ARE SYNBIOTICS?
Simplified, synbiotics combine prebiotics and probiotics for enhanced health benefits.

WHAT ARE POSTBIOTICS?
According to a consensus statement from the ISAPP, postbiotics are “a preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confer health benefits on the host.”

Further Reading

Exploring the Future: BiomEdit CEO Discusses Next-Generation Designer Probiotics That Could Disrupt Human and Animal Health Markets.
🎥 Designer Probiotics Startup ZBiotics Sells 8 Million ‘Pre-Alcohol’ Shots and Launches New ‘Sugar to Fiber’ Product.