Synthetic biology has rapidly emerged as one of the most innovative and promising fields of biotechnology. By combining principles from biology, engineering, and chemistry, synthetic biology enables the design and construction of new biological parts, systems, and devices that were previously unattainable. Numerous companies are at the forefront of this revolution, contributing to groundbreaking advancements in areas such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
- Ginkgo Bioworks Ginkgo Bioworks, often referred to as the "organism design company," specializes in programming cells to produce a variety of chemicals and materials. The company uses its advanced platform to design custom microorganisms for applications ranging from agriculture to pharmaceuticals. In 2021, Ginkgo went public via a SPAC merger, with a valuation of $15 billion. The company has been a leader in designing microorganisms for biotechnology applications, including the production of fragrances, flavors, and biofuels. Source: Ginkgo Bioworks website
- Codexis Codexis focuses on protein engineering and enzyme optimization to improve processes in pharmaceuticals, food, and industrial chemicals. Their patented CodeX? platform enables the rapid development of enzymes, which are critical in synthetic biology applications. In 2022, Codexis reported over $200 million in annual revenue, with its enzyme technologies being integral in the production of bio-based chemicals. Source: Codexis website
- Editas Medicine Editas Medicine is a biotechnology company focused on gene editing, particularly using CRISPR technology. Founded in 2013, it aims to develop transformative genetic medicines for diseases with high unmet needs. In 2020, Editas entered into a partnership with Allergen to develop gene-edited therapies for ocular diseases. Source: Editas Medicine website
- Zymergen Zymergen is a company at the intersection of synthetic biology and machine learning. Zymergen uses its bio-manufacturing platform to design new bio-based materials that can replace petroleum-based products. Despite challenges in its early years, in 2021, Zymergen reached a significant milestone by securing contracts with major companies in the electronics, materials, and agriculture sectors. Source: Zymergen website
- Amyris Amyris is a leader in bioengineering and the commercialization of renewable alternatives to traditional petrochemical-based products. The company has been recognized for its innovative work in biofuels, specialty chemicals, and personal care products. In 2021, Amyris reported $274 million in revenue and continued to expand its portfolio of sustainable products. Source: Amyris website
- Arzeda Arzeda is a synthetic biology company specializing in enzyme and pathway design for industrial applications. Their platform is used to develop bio-based solutions in areas such as agriculture, energy, and chemicals. In 2022, Arzeda secured $45 million in Series C funding to expand its operations and product development. Source: Arzeda website
- Synlogic Synlogic is focused on the development of synthetic biology-based therapies, particularly in the field of microbiome engineering. Their lead product, Synbio-1, aims to treat metabolic diseases by using engineered probiotics. In 2020, Synlogic entered a partnership with Roche to advance its pipeline of engineered bacteria therapies. Source: Synlogic website
- Twist Bioscience Twist Bioscience is known for its innovative work in DNA synthesis, providing companies with the ability to produce custom synthetic DNA at a large scale. In 2020, the company went public, raising $75 million in its IPO. Twist's DNA synthesis technology has enabled advancements in synthetic biology, supporting applications in drug discovery, agriculture, and industrial biotechnology. Source: Twist Bioscience website
- Vir Biotechnology Vir Biotechnology combines synthetic biology with immune system modulation to develop next-generation therapies for infectious diseases. In 2020, Vir collaborated with Moderna to develop a COVID-19 monoclonal antibody therapy. The company continues to push forward with cutting-edge research into antiviral treatments and vaccines. Source: Vir Biotechnology website
- Intrexon (now DNA Script) Intrexon, now operating under the name DNA Script, focuses on advancing DNA synthesis technologies. They are working on innovative approaches to improve the speed, efficiency, and cost of DNA sequencing. In 2021, the company secured a $165 million Series C funding round to further advance its synthetic biology tools. Source: DNA Script website
These companies are not only advancing synthetic biology but are also unlocking new ways to address global challenges across healthcare, agriculture, and sustainability. With continued investments and innovations, they are set to lead the biotechnology sector into a new era.
