Felix Biotechnology partners with AnimalBiome to develop new pet diarrhea solution

maximilian_100 / stock.adobe.com

Felix Biotechnology, Inc.—a biotechnology company that develops antibacterial therapies to treat drug-resistant infections—has partnered with AnimalBiome, a company focusing on pet health and wellness, to create innovative solutions for pet diarrhea.

According to a company release, there is a rising demand for chemical-free, safe antimicrobial solutions that particularly remove problematic bacteria while preserving the beneficial bacteria of the microbiome. Felix's model can be leveraged against a broad array of problem bacterial species, plus the company’s various ongoing partnerships aim to develop phage-based solutions with personal care and cosmetic companies. This deal now extends into their animal health portfolio.

"We are committed to finding a better solution for this common affliction plaguing pets and distressing their owners," says Natalie Ma, PhD, Felix co-founder and head of business development at Felix. "Through our unique approach to phage technologies, we will create a safe, chemical-free, durable and effective treatment for this pernicious pathogen.”

Bacteriophage—or phage—are minuscule viruses that infect and kill bacteria. Felix combines machine learning and synthetic biology to engineer phage to overcome the primary obstacles facing the broad adoption of current phage technologies: narrow spectrum and phage resistance.

"At AnimalBiome, we are focused on providing new microbiome-focused solutions to help pets and their owners. Phage technology offers great promise in reducing the use of antibiotics in the treatment of bacterial pathogens, protecting beneficial microbes, and supporting better health and wellness," says Holly Ganz, PhD, chief science officer of AnimalBiome.

"We are excited to work with Felix to develop new products specifically designed for pathogens afflicting companion animals,” she added.

Reference

Felix Biotechnology to collaborate with AnimalBiome on a novel solution for pet diarrhea. News release. Felix Biotechnology, Inc. January 14, 2022. Accessed January 19, 2022.https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/felix-biotechnology-to-collaborate-with-animalbiome-on-a-novel-solution-for-pet-diarrhea-301461382.html