AOBiome
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Biotechnology, Skincare |
| Founded | 2013 |
| Founder | David Whitlock, Jamie Heywood, Hilly Thompson, Lenny Barshack |
| Headquarters | Boston , United States |
| Products | Topical biologics using ammonia-oxidizing bacteria |
AOBiome is a Boston-headquartered biotech company dedicated to developing products that replenish ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) to enhance skin health, manage hypertension, and address various systemic health issues.
Company
Established in 2013 by MIT chemical engineer David Whitlock and PatientsLikeMe co-founder Jamie Heywood, together with Hilly Thompson and Lenny Barshack, AOBiome concentrates on pioneering therapeutic solutions centered on the skin microbiome.
History
Back in 2001, David Whitlock proposed that Nitrosomonas eutropha, a bacterium commonly found in soil and horse stables, might offer symbiotic benefits through ammonia metabolism. To explore this hypothesis, he suspended the bacteria in water and applied the mixture to his skin while discontinuing regular bathing to facilitate bacterial colonization. Whitlock has publicly stated that he has avoided showering for more than ten years, supporting the "hygiene hypothesis" which suggests modern cleanliness routines may diminish beneficial microbes essential for human health.
Since its inception, AOBiome has carried out both laboratory and human research, including two clinical trials targeting acne vulgaris. These studies have broadened the company’s focus toward systemic treatments like hypertension. The firm holds a patent covering the topical application of AOB, forming the foundation of its proprietary product line and business strategy aimed at harnessing microbiome science for comprehensive health benefits.
Ammonia-oxidizing bacteria
Ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) naturally convert ammonia present in sweat into nitrite and nitric oxide. AOBiome investigates how these bacteria can elevate nitric oxide levels, capitalizing on their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Because AOB are vulnerable to many components found in conventional soaps and skincare items, AOBiome’s affiliate, Mother Dirt, creates formulations that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, strengthening the company’s position in the microbiome-friendly skincare market.
Clinical trials
Specializing in topical biologics that utilize ammonia-oxidizing bacteria to treat inflammatory conditions, AOBiome has progressed a Phase 2 clinical trial for adult acne since 2015. During this study, the company identified notable reductions in blood pressure among participants, uncovering unexpected cardiovascular advantages and broadening its therapeutic focus. Additional clinical programs include Phase I trials addressing allergic rhinitis and eczema, alongside preclinical investigations into wound repair, migraine relief, and thermoregulation—reflecting a diversified development pipeline aligned with its strategic business objectives.