Leipzig startup replicates breast milk's vital compounds for health breakthroughs

A Leipzig-based biotech startup is making strides in producing compounds identical to those in human breast milk. Primogene has developed a unique enzymatic process to create these molecules, which could benefit nutrition, skincare, and medicine. The company's work has already attracted funding and early commercial success.

Primogene specialises in bioidentical human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), complex sugars that match those naturally found in breast milk. Their proprietary technology allows large-scale production of these compounds, which play key roles in health at every life stage.

The startup's initial focus is on nutrient-rich additives for premature infant formula. Beyond infant nutrition, they are exploring HMOs for disease prevention in adults. Their technology also extends to other markets, including skincare and pharmaceuticals.

The company has secured backing from biotech investors like Climate Founders, along with grants from Saxony and Leipzig. Early revenue has come from partnerships and pre-orders in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. In 2024, Primogene placed third in the Saxon Founders' Award, boosting its profile.

As of February 2026, no public clinical trials or hospital collaborations in Leipzig have tested their enzymatic process for medical uses of bioidentical lactose.

Primogene's technology could transform multiple industries by replicating breast milk's benefits. The company continues to expand its partnerships while advancing research into broader health applications. Their progress reflects growing interest in bioidentical compounds for nutrition and medicine.