On Friday, 20 March, the kick-off meeting of the second call BioPhoT platform project “SynGABA: Glutamine-driven synbiotic for microbiome-mediated GABA production” took place. The project is implemented within the framework of the Long-Term National Research Programme platform “BioPhoT”, in cooperation with the University of Latvia.
The project focuses on the gut microbiome—the community of microorganisms living in the intestines, together with their genetic material and produced metabolites—which plays a significant role in human health and recovery processes. Although probiotics, or products containing beneficial bacteria, are already widely used, their effectiveness is often inconsistent due to a lack of targeted and scientifically grounded design.
Within the SynGABA project, researchers plan to develop and test an innovative synbiotic product that combines probiotics and prebiotics—substances that serve as nutrients for beneficial bacteria. The product will be designed so that its components work synergistically, supporting the survival and growth of probiotics in the gut.
The research will place particular focus on two important molecules involved in microbiome metabolism and human health. L-glutamine is one of the most abundant amino acids in the human body, providing energy to cells and supporting the function of the intestines, immune system, and muscles. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), in turn, is an important signalling molecule that helps regulate the nervous system, promotes relaxation and better sleep, and plays a significant role in the gut–brain axis and muscle recovery processes.
The project also includes commercialisation activities, such as developing an intellectual property management strategy, preparing a detailed commercialisation roadmap for the technology, identifying potential industry partners, and implementing targeted communication with industry. These steps will help outline a clear pathway for bringing this innovation to the market.
The project is implemented in collaboration with the University of Latvia and will contribute to the development of new science-based solutions for improving human health.
BioPhoT is implemented within the long-term national research program “Innovation Fund – Long-term Research Program” funded by the Ministry of Economics. Platform number: IVPP-EM-Innovation-2024/1-0002.