Sequential and AMILI Launch $1.8M R&D Initiative for Microbiome Innovation in the UK-Singapore Collaboration
Sequential Skin and AMILI Secure Prestigious $1.8 Million Grant
Sequential Skin Ltd, a leading entity in skin microbiome testing, has joined forces with AMILI, an expert in gut microbiome science, to revolutionize the diagnosis of inflammatory skin disorders (ISDs). Together, they have gained recognition with the UK-Singapore Collaborative Research and Development Grant, valued at 1.8 million dollars. This collaboration, supported by Innovate UK and Enterprise Singapore, ensures impactful advancements in understanding the skin-gut microbiome interplay.
The relevance of this research cannot be overstated: chronic ISDs, such as atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, affect approximately 20-25% of the global population. These conditions yield significant consequences not just physically, but mentally. The project aims to explore how microbiome imbalances can influence the onset and severity of these disorders, particularly focusing on skin health in correlation with gut health.
Both companies are leveraging their extensive databases for this groundbreaking project. Sequential Skin boasts a clinical database rich in over 25,000 skin microbiome samples, consolidated since launching the world's first at-home skin microbiome test in 2019. Furthermore, With locations across the US, Europe, and Asia, Sequential serves over 80 personal care and pharmaceutical organizations committed to innovation in skin microbiome research.
Conversely, AMILI, stationed in Singapore, leads the field in gut microbiome research. Notable for executing the region's first gut microbiome transplants in 2014, AMILI has accumulated Asia's largest multi-ethnic gut microbiome database. This wealth of information provides integral insights into the relationships between gut microbiota alterations and various health conditions.
The synergy of these two pioneering organizations, both recognized and funded by reputable governmental bodies, is set to propel the development of microbiome-centered interventions. As Dr. Oliver Worsley, CEO of Sequential states, "This competitive grant allows us to pioneer a novel approach to the characterization of inflammatory skin conditions. By utilizing our comprehensive skin microbiome dataset alongside AMILI’s extensive knowledge of gut microbiome research, we aim to create impactful and actionable interventions."
Similarly, Dr. Jeremy Lim, AMILI's CEO, expressed his enthusiasm about this integration stating, "The gut-skin axis represents a vital but often overlooked element in diagnosing ISDs that affect millions worldwide. We are delighted to partner with Sequential on this innovative project."
As the research progresses, the aim remains clear: to further elucidate the complex connections between gut and skin health, providing new avenues for diagnosis and treatment of ISDs. The findings from this collaboration could develop into non-invasive at-home tests, revolutionizing how individuals approach skin health management.
Additionally, the advancement in gut-skin microbiome research holds the potential to not only enhance diagnostic capabilities but also transform therapeutic interventions for affected individuals. Both Sequential Skin and AMILI are poised to lead this urgent evolution in microbiome health— paving the way for breakthroughs that could change the landscape of skin health treatments worldwide.