Macrogen ventures into microbiome DTC business

[Courtesy of Macrogen]

Macrogen Inc., a leading genomics analysis company in South Korea, is gearing up to launch its pioneering Direct-To-Consumer (DTC) business focused on the human microbiome and utilizing fecal samples. The new service will enable consumers to conveniently conduct gut microbiome tests from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for hospital visits.

According to sources on Tuesday, Macrogen is building a platform using gut microbiome DTC test results to propose tailored dietary supplements and lifestyle recommendations to consumers. The service is expected to launch later in 2023.

The process is straightforward. Consumers can request a microbiome test through a mobile app and a test kit is delivered to their homes. After collecting their fecal samples and sending them back, Macrogen analyzes the samples and uploads the results to the app within a few days. Consumers can then receive a three-tier indication of their condition, ranging from “safe” to “normal” to “caution” and covering a range of health conditions, including colorectal cancer, gastrointestinal diseases, kidney stones, diabetes, atopic dermatitis, and nutritional metabolism factors such as fiber and protein digestion.

“The abundance and balance of various microorganisms within the gut are crucial, and based on an extensive analysis, we will guide customers on how their microbiota richness and balance compare to the general Korean population,” a company official said.

Microbiome refers to the collective microorganisms and ecosystems residing within the human body. These microorganisms can produce beneficial substances that contribute to health but can also be linked to the causation of specific diseases. Recent study results have increasingly associated microbiomes with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and obesity.

Macrogen has been strategically positioning itself as a leader in microbiome analysis, collaborating with its partners in the United States and Australia over several years to develop its analytical capabilities. The company has consequently amassed Korea’s largest database in this field as well as securing a team of experts.

“Fecal samples require more complex analysis techniques due to the challenges in sample collection and transportation compared to saliva. It demands a high level of technical expertise,” an industry source said.

With this service, Macrogen plans to inform consumers about the predominant microorganisms in their gut and provide dietary recommendations accordingly.

Macrogen is expected to make a strong impact in the microbiome field, just as it did in the genetic testing sector earlier in the year. In June, the company launched ‘Gentok,’ a genetic DTC test using saliva that has already attracted over a million visitors within two months of its release. Gentok offers genetic testing services for 69 different conditions ranging from hair loss to skin aging, insomnia, and caffeine metabolism, all of which resonated strongly with the MZ generation.

Macrogen aims to tap the growth in the microbiome market by accelerating its expansion in the DTC business. According to Frost & Sullivan, the global microbiome-related market size grew from $81.1 billion in 2019 to $93.5 billion in 2021, and it is expected to reach $108.7 billion this year.