Gadusol Laboratories

Gadusol Laboratories operates at the intersection of biotechnology and personal care, focusing on the development of nature-inspired sunscreen compounds. The company was established in March 2017 as a spinout from Oregon State University. It was co-founded by Katie Pettinger, who served as CEO, alongside Dr. Taifo Mahmud and Dr. Alan Bakalinsky. Pettinger brought over a decade of experience in commercializing scientific innovations, while Dr. Bakalinsky, who was the Director of Research, contributed his extensive knowledge in yeast fermentation physiology from his work at Oregon State University.

The core of Gadusol Laboratories' business is the synthetic production of gadusol, a UV-absorbing compound naturally found in marine organisms like fish, which they use to protect their eggs and larvae from sun damage. Recognizing the growing consumer and environmental concerns over chemical UV filters in conventional sunscreens, the company aimed to provide a safer alternative. Their proprietary technology involves transferring the genes responsible for producing gadusol in fish into yeast and then manufacturing the compound through fermentation. This bio-synthesis process allows for an economical and sustainable production method that does not rely on harvesting marine life.

The business model centers on operating as an ingredient supplier. Gadusol Laboratories planned to sell its bio-synthesized gadusol directly to cosmetic and sunscreen formulators as an active ingredient. This ingredient is positioned as a powerful antioxidant that can boost the SPF in skincare products, offering broad-spectrum protection that is safe for both humans and the environment. In July 2022, Gadusol Laboratories was acquired by Arcaea, a Boston-based beauty company that leverages biology to create new ingredients for the beauty industry. The acquisition was intended to accelerate the commercialization of gadusol-based technologies and integrate them into consumer products more quickly. Following the acquisition, the founders and team of Gadusol Laboratories joined Arcaea to continue their work.

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