Founded in 2014 by MIT professors Jim Collins and Tim Lu, Synlogic combines synthetic biology, a form of precision biological engineering, with principles of traditional drug development to design medicines for diseases that are in need of new approaches. The result is a robust engine that can create these potential medicines, called Synthetic Biotics, to improve patients’ lives. Synthetic Biotics are living probiotics that have been genetically engineered to perform specific functions in the GI tract targeting validated biology. They have the potential to treat a range of conditions including rare diseases, metabolic conditions, immunologic and inflammatory diseases. Because Synthetic Biotics are orally administered and are based on familiar probiotics as their delivery method, or chassis, they offer a potentially convenient and safe approach to treatment. Synlogic also has research collaborations and partnerships with Roche and Ginkgo Bioworks.