Key points from article :
Helaina, a New York-based biotech company, has raised $45 million in a Series B funding round to expand the production of its flagship product, effera Human Lactoferrin. This bioactive protein mimics human lactoferrin, naturally found in breast milk, and is designed to support immune health, cognitive function, and gut health. It's also linked to potential anti-aging benefits due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
While bovine lactoferrin, derived from cow’s milk, is already popular, Helaina's human-equivalent version is claimed to be more effective and less likely to trigger allergies. The company uses precision fermentation to produce effera at scale, aiming to make it widely available in foods, beverages, and supplements through partnerships with consumer brands.
Helaina plans to use the new funding not only to scale production but also to develop additional products targeting various health needs across all age groups. The funding round, led by Avidity Partners, included contributions from several other investors.
