The Company focuses on rare metabolic diseases, with its lead program, labafenogene marselecobac (SYNB1934), currently being studied in Synpheny-3, a global, pivotal Phase 3 study for patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). The company has a collaboration agreement with F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd and Hoffmann-La Roche Inc.; and Ginkgo Bioworks, Inc. Strategic partnerships with major pharma and biotech players provide credibility and resources, though the company experienced significant setbacks with a 90%+ workforce reduction in 2024.
Cyborg Score Rationale
The company pivoted after discontinuing its pivotal Phase 3 study for Phenylketonuria (PKU) in early 2024, an event that triggered a workforce reduction of more than 90%. The company's market capitalization was reported at approximately $18.83 million USD as of November 2025, placing it firmly in the small-cap biotech space. Micro-cap valuation and clinical setbacks create extreme volatility and execution risk.
Top Insights
Pioneer in synthetic biology therapeutics using engineered living probiotics designed to treat disease through novel mechanisms.
Major clinical setback in early 2024 with discontinuation of pivotal Phase 3 PKU study, leading to 90%+ workforce reduction.
Pipeline includes SYNB1618 (PKU), SYNB1353 (homocystinuria), SYNB8802 (hyperoxaluria), and SYNB2081 (gout), targeting rare metabolic disorders.
Institutional investors control over 64% of outstanding shares as of late 2025, giving VC/PE firms significant influence over strategic decisions.
Named Competitors
Traditional PKU therapeutics — Established dietary and pharmaceutical treatments for phenylketonuria
Cell/gene therapy platforms — Collaborative partner on synthetic biology platform development