Novel Probiotic Strains Targeting the Brain-Gut Axis

Value Proposition

This technology provides a portfolio of four novel, human‑derived probiotic strains with scientifically validated functional activity targeting the gut-brain axis.

Unlike many existing probiotics, these strains are validated with mechanistic, strain‑specific in vitro evidence, including modulation of key G‑protein coupled receptors involved in gut and brain signalling.

This level of biological characterisation provides a clear competitive advantage, enabling the development of differentiated, science‑led next-generation brain and gut health products with strong potential for credible claim substantiation and future clinical validation.

Opportunity

There is strong and growing consumer demand for probiotics with proven functional benefits, particularly in areas such as digestive health, mental wellbeing, immunity and metabolic health.
This technology is well suited to companies active in:

Probiotics and live biotherapeutics
Nutraceuticals and dietary supplements
Functional foods and beverages
Mental wellness and gut health product portfolios
Appetite/metabolic regulation
Mood/stress wellness products

The opportunity is to license or collaborate on the development of differentiated brain-gut axis probiotic products, enabling partners to strengthen product pipelines, support evidence‑based claims and accelerate entry into high‑value health markets.

Development Stage

Four probiotic strains identified, isolated and characterised.
In vitro functional screening completed, including:

Survival in simulated gastrointestinal conditions.
Strain‑specific biochemical and functional profiling.
Demonstrated modulation of GHS‑R1a and/or 5HT2c receptors.

Strains deposited in an international culture collection (NCIMB).
Patent filed (EPO, 2025) covering strains, compositions and uses.
Preclinical stage.

The technology provides an attractive entry point for partners to shape downstream development, formulation, regulatory and clinical strategy, and market positioning.

Advantages

Novel, human-derived strains with clear traceability and international culture collection deposit status.
Mechanistically validated, strain‑specific functional activity linked to gut–brain signalling pathways, addressing a major gap in the current probiotic market.
Platform potential, supporting development across brain health, gut health, immunity and metabolic wellness.
Ability to develop both live biotherapeutics and postbiotic products from the same strain portfolio.
Developed within a leading microbiome research centre, supporting credibility and opportunities for further collaboration.