BioNukleo GmbH Company Profile

Background

Overview

BioNukleo GmbH, established in 2014 as a spin-off from the Chair of Bioprocess Engineering at the Technical University of Berlin, specializes in the enzymatic synthesis of nucleoside and nucleotide derivatives. The company leverages extensive academic research in biocatalysis to provide sustainable and efficient solutions for the production of fine chemicals.

Mission and Vision

BioNukleo's mission is to develop innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective processes for the synthesis of nucleic acid derivatives, aiming to simplify production methods and reduce environmental impact. The company envisions becoming a leading provider of biocatalytic solutions, contributing to advancements in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and research sectors.

Primary Area of Focus

The company's primary focus is on the enzymatic synthesis of nucleoside and nucleotide derivatives, including modified pentose-1-phosphates, nucleosides, and nucleotides. By utilizing biocatalysis, BioNukleo offers high selectivity and reduced environmental impact compared to traditional chemical methods.

Industry Significance

BioNukleo plays a crucial role in the biotechnology industry by providing sustainable alternatives for the production of nucleic acid derivatives, which are essential in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and research. The company's innovative approach aligns with the growing demand for green chemistry solutions and contributes to the advancement of biocatalysis applications.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Develop and optimize biocatalytic processes for the synthesis of nucleic acid derivatives.

Provide custom biocatalytic solutions tailored to client-specific needs.

Enhance sustainability and efficiency in chemical manufacturing through enzymatic methods.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Enzymatic synthesis of nucleoside and nucleotide derivatives.

Process development for the production of fine chemicals.

Custom enzyme production and optimization.

Key Technologies Utilized

Comprehensive enzyme library with broad substrate tolerance.

Chemo-enzymatic synthesis routes for nucleic acid derivatives.

High-throughput expression and purification systems for enzyme production.

Primary Markets Targeted

Pharmaceutical industry.

Biotechnology sector.

Academic and industrial research institutions.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

BioNukleo has received support from the Technical University of Berlin's EXIST program, which fosters innovative startups. Specific details regarding total funds raised and recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Notable Investors

The company has been supported by the Technical University of Berlin's EXIST program, which is designed to promote innovative startups.

Intended Utilization of Capital

While specific utilization details are not publicly disclosed, the funding is likely directed towards:

Research and development of new biocatalytic processes.

Expansion of enzyme libraries and production capabilities.

Enhancement of marketing and sales efforts to reach broader markets.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

BioNukleo focuses on the development of various nucleoside and nucleotide derivatives, including modified pentose-1-phosphates, nucleosides, and nucleotides. Specific pipeline candidates and their stages are not publicly detailed.

Stages of Development

Research and development of biocatalytic processes.

Process optimization and scale-up.

Commercial production and distribution.

Target Conditions

The company's products are primarily aimed at applications in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and research, addressing the need for sustainable and efficient production of nucleic acid derivatives.

Anticipated Milestones

Completion of process development for new nucleoside and nucleotide derivatives.

Successful scale-up and commercialization of biocatalytic processes.

Expansion of product offerings and market reach.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Enzyme library with broad substrate tolerance, enabling the production of a wide range of nucleoside and nucleotide analogs.

Chemo-enzymatic synthesis routes that offer high efficiency and purity.

Significant Scientific Methods

High-throughput expression and purification systems for enzyme production.

Process development techniques for optimizing biocatalytic reactions.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Specific AI-driven capabilities are not publicly detailed.

Leadership Team

Anke Kurreck – CEO

Professional Background: Dr. rer. nat. with a focus on Microbiology. Over 15 years of scientific experience in environmental microbiology, RNA interference applications, and biochemistry. Author of over 40 publications in peer-reviewed journals. Successfully managed over 10 funding projects.

Maryke Fehlau – CTO

Professional Background: Dr.-Ing. with a focus on Biocatalysis. Over 10 years of experience in biocatalysis, including biocatalyst identification, multi-enzyme cascade design, and the establishment of analytical methods and product purification strategies. Specialist in nucleotide products.

Advisory Board

Prof. Dr. Peter Neubauer: Head of the Chair of Bioprocess Engineering, TU Berlin. Over 30 years of experience in the biotechnology sector. More than 350 publications in microbiology, bioprocess engineering, automation, high-throughput processes, and process analytical technology.

Prof. Dr. Jens Kurreck: Head of the Chair of Applied Biochemistry, TU Berlin. 25 years of experience in biotechnology. Author of 120 publications in RNA technologies, virology, cancer research, bioprinting, and organ models.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The market for nucleoside and nucleotide derivatives is driven by the pharmaceutical industry's need for efficient and sustainable production methods. Biocatalysis offers a promising alternative to traditional chemical synthesis, aligning with the growing emphasis on green chemistry and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Competitor Analysis

Nucleosyn: Established in 2006, Nucleosyn specializes in the development of compounds derived from organic chemistry for applications in genomics, bio-analysis, vaccines, and diagnostics.

Enzymicals AG: A biotechnology company that collaborates with BioNukleo in the field of enzymatic synthesis of nucleosides and nucleotides.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Enzymicals AG: Collaborates with BioNukleo to bridge innovative enzyme solutions with industrial-scale implementation, enhancing the value proposition for clients.

Operational Insights

BioNukleo's strategic focus on biocatalysis positions it favorably in the market, offering sustainable and efficient production methods for nucleic acid derivatives. The company's collaborations with partners like Enzymicals AG strengthen its market position and innovation capacity.