An Israeli startup uses AI tools to identify indication-specific functional proteins with high bio-similarity to those found in human breast milk.
While proteins are abundant in nature, identifying precise combinations that deliver specific health impacts remains a challenge. Maolac applies AI technology to scan all existing scientific data to deliver bio-functional proteins optimised for specific human health needs.
The story of Maolac began with CEO Maya Ashkenazi’s first pregnancy. As a scientist – and first-time mother – Ashkenazi was interested in better understanding what it is that makes breast milk such a perfect nutritional resource.
After carrying out a full proteomic analysis of breast milk samples, she discovered more than 1,500 functional proteins – the building blocks of everything functional in our body.
“We often think that these proteins are just for babies, but this is a mistake,” she said. “These are the same proteins that our bodies are supposed to produce when we get older. The difference is that our bodies are less able to synthesise proteins from what we eat.”
Ashkenazi also discovered antibodies in breast milk, including Covid-19 antibodies, demonstrating how it is constantly evolving. She likens this to a smartphone upgrade, designed to protect devices from emerging and new viruses.
“No one has really thought of breast milk as an algorithm that is constantly updated to preserve humanity,” she said.
The company developed an AI system that pinpoints dairy and plant-based proteins with high bio-similarity to functional proteins found in human breast milk.
“We take the gold standard of breast milk, then try to explore where in nature we can extract relevant proteins [from],” said Ashkenazi. “In this way, we don’t see ourselves as just another AI company.”
The company uses generative AI and a language-based algorithm to search through clinical data. These technologies enable the team to calculate similarities between proteins and identify useful functionalities.
“To understand a protein’s functionality, you need to understand its 3D structure,” said Ashkenazi. “[That is why] we developed a tool that applies 3D imaging to compare proteins.”
Extraction and filtration technologies are then used to produce bioactive compounds. Another technology is applied to deliver the proteins in powdered form, a system that preserves their functionality. This is critical, as proteins quickly degrade in the gut.
“Taken together, the data science, extraction techniques, and delivery system are what enables us to deliver bioactive compounds,” said Ashkenazi.
The company has launched products under the brand name Maolactin with two key target areas – Maolactin GI, for comfort and digestion, and Maolactin FMR (fast muscle recovery).
“Maolactin GI contains 11 proteins in one formulation, and targets deficiencies in the digestive system,” explained Ashkenazi. “It is designed to maximise gut health; repair the gut-immune barrier; reduce inflammatory reactions; and help fight bloating, constipation, and stomach aches.
“The aim is to effectively restart gut health by helping healthy microbiota to flourish. The more we look into the microbiome space, the more we realise how super-specific treatments need to be for individuals.”
Maolactin FMR, on the other hand, is a bioactive blend of functional proteins formulated to lower inflammation and enhance muscle recovery. The product is targeted at athletes of all skill levels, as well as elderly consumers who want to improve mobility and enhance exercise recovery.
“What’s really interesting is that as we get older, we lose the ability to take the protein we eat and turn it into muscle mass,” said Ashkenazi. “So just eating protein will not solve the problem.”
Maolac was a finalist at the 2024 Vitafoods Europe Startup Innovation Challenge, in the Most Innovative Nutraceutical Ingredient category.
“We believe that our unique way of thinking is what gives us the edge,” said Ashkenazi. “For a company like ours, Vitafoods was the perfect location for us to raise awareness of our technology and our products.”
Moving forward, the company plans to launch more products on to the market, including vegan products.
