Q2 2021
PitchBook Analyst Note: Gut Health Research Opens Market Opportunities
June 25, 2021
This note was updated on July 7, 2021.
Microbiome research is at a nascent stage, but startups are already applying the insights discovered by academic institutions, government organizations and pharmaceutical companies to conduct proprietary research and develop direct-to-consumer wellness solutions.
PitchBook’s latest analyst note examines how gut health research has opened emerging opportunities for VC-backed startups, and why some investors are wary despite the rise in government spending on microbiome research. Key takeaways include:
Microbiome research is at a nascent stage, but startups are already applying the insights discovered by academic institutions, government organizations and pharmaceutical companies to conduct proprietary research and develop direct-to-consumer wellness solutions.
PitchBook’s latest analyst note examines how gut health research has opened emerging opportunities for VC-backed startups, and why some investors are wary despite the rise in government spending on microbiome research. Key takeaways include:
- Positive research could dramatically increase the size of the market, but there is no clear timeline for when or if such findings may occur. In the meantime, the industry may struggle to gain mainstream traction.
- At-home gut-health test providers inform consumers which bacteria inhabit their gut. But gut microbiomes can vary 100% person-to-person, creating research barriers for companies looking to delve into the space.
- Probiotic supplement providers stand to benefit from increased awareness and research related to the microbiome’s impact. But if research shows they aren’t helpful, the market could dissipate.