Milky Way Biotech

Curing Lactose Intolerance

Approximately 68% of the worlds population suffers from lactose intolerance characterised by the inability of breaking down milk sugar, lactose due to insufficient levels of production of the enzyme called lactase. People with lactose intolerance have to deal with symptoms like nausea, stomach pain, bloated intestines, and diarrhea.

Currently, mostpeople who sufferfrom lactose intolerance must completely avoid milk and dairy products, meanwhile lactose is used as an additive in various food products.

The only widely available treatment for this intolerance involvesthe administration ofpills containing lactase. However, this treatment requires timely supplementation of a lactase pills prior to consumption of dairy products and does not completely remove its symptoms. Our solution to this problem is somatic peroral (orally administered pill) gene therapy to treat lactoseintolerance. Contrary to lactase pills, somatic peroral gene therapy offers long lasting effects, which makes this treatment more economical and convenient for patients.

We are motivated about having a positive impact on the lives of millions of people by improving their health, wellbeing, and enabling to select their diet of preference, eliminating the stress that comes with the uncertainty posed by lactose intolerance.

Our team is passionate about biotechnology and genomics, and have the relevant education background within these fields. Both Mario and Patrik bring experience from Novo Nordisk with regards to pharmaceutical production, process optimisation, and GMP.

Team

  • Patrik Szoboszlai, COO, Associate Process Engineer at Novo Nordisk
  • Candela Sánchez-Girón Barba, Lead Drug Developer, MSc Engineering in Biotechnology, DTU
  • Mario Alzamora, Lead Researcher, MSc Engineering in Biotechnology, DTU and Manufacturing at MIT, CEO of Rebilance
  • Angeliki Panetsou, Research Technician, MSc Engineering in Food Technology, DTU
  • Ioanna Chini, Bioethicist, MSc Engineering in Biotechnology, DTU
  • Te Chen, Geneticist, MSc Engineering in Biotechnology, DTU

Contact

Program

Health Innovators 2023