NORTH CHICAGO, Ill. — 32 Biosciences has secured $6 million in funding as it accelerates development of its gut microbiome-based diagnostics and therapeutics, with plans to pursue a Series A round and reach key FDA milestones in the coming years.
The North Chicago-based biotech company, which focuses on restoring the functional health of the gut microbiome, said the latest round exceeded internal targets—marking the second time the company has surpassed its fundraising goals. CEO Peter Farmakis attributed the strong investor support to the company’s focused scientific approach and its origin in research from the University of Chicago.
32 Biosciences’ lead diagnostic technology uses AI and mass spectrometry to evaluate the gut microbiome’s capacity to support key bodily functions. The platform is designed to generate actionable clinical data that can guide treatment and help develop new microbiome-targeted therapies. The company is aiming for FDA clearance of the diagnostic tool by late 2026 and plans to submit a Pre-Submission Meeting Package to the agency by the end of the second quarter.
In parallel, the company is advancing a novel non-antibiotic antimicrobial therapy designed to prevent gut-derived bacterial infections. The drug candidate works by blocking virulence gene expression, enhancing the gut’s mucosal barrier, and promoting healthy bacteria, while avoiding the pitfalls of traditional antibiotics. Preclinical models have shown promising efficacy in reducing infection-related mortality without contributing to antibiotic resistance.
“This is our second fundraise, and both times we exceeded our goals,” said Farmakis. “It’s a testament to our focused approach to restoring the functional health of the gut microbiome, our strong management team, and the groundbreaking science from the University of Chicago.”
To support its scientific and commercial expansion, 32 Biosciences has appointed a group of prominent experts to its advisory boards. New members include Dr. Purna Kashyap of the Mayo Clinic, Dr. David Rubin of the University of Chicago, and Dr. Jay Wohlgemuth, former CMO of Quest Diagnostics. Regulatory and healthcare strategy experts Jack Kalavritinos and Don Potter also joined the board.
The company has also expanded its executive team. Greg Aronin has been named Chief Operations Officer, with Patrick Hennessey, MD, appointed Chief Medical Officer. Sharon Ayd, PhD, joins as Chief Regulatory Officer, and Jeff McCown steps in as Vice President of Commercial Operations. Additional leadership includes Andrew Headley as Vice President of Finance, Data and AI Strategy, and Kaitlyn Read, PhD, as Director of Product Development.
“Our expanded leadership team and advisory boards position us to scale operations and drive innovation across diagnostics and therapeutics,” said Farmakis. “We’re building the foundation for long-term impact in gut microbiome medicine.”
