Diet4Life has identified a bioactive protein derived from meat that shows promising anti-obesity effects. Human studies demonstrate reduced voluntary calorie intake, while animal studies show weight loss. The protein has the potential to support weight management through mechanisms comparable to those targeted by GLP-1-based treatments.

The project focuses on developing a scalable and sustainable production platform for the protein, known as DC7-2. E. coli currently produces DC7-2 at commercially relevant yields, and the project will investigate how the process can support industrial-scale production. The partners will also explore opportunities to further optimize the production strain, including reducing or eliminating the need for antibiotics during manufacturing.

In parallel, the project advances the use of probiotic yeast as an alternative production host. Diet4Life and DTU have already demonstrated successful expression of DC7-2 in yeast, and the collaboration will continue to strengthen this approach.

The long-term ambition is to introduce DC7-2 as a food ingredient and nutritional supplement through partnerships that combine expertise in production, product development and commercialization.