Prolific Machines
Prolific Machines is pioneering the use of optogenetics and AI-driven bioprocess optimization to revolutionize biomanufacturing. Their mission is to illuminate biology’s limitless potential for a healthier tomorrow by enabling the production of next-generation therapeutics and broadening patient access to life-altering medicines. Founded in 2020, the company has developed a unique Photomolecular™ platform that uses light to precisely control cellular functions, boosting yields, improving quality, and enabling the manufacture of complex biotherapeutics. With a focus on strategic partnerships, Prolific Machines collaborates with innovators in biopharma and advanced nutrition, offering flexible, scalable solutions and in-house cell line development up to 200-liter pilot scale. The company is recognized for its commitment to safety, innovation, and a collaborative, diverse team culture.
What We Do
A next-generation cell line development platform integrating optogenetic technology and AI-driven bioprocess optimization for dynamic, tunable cellular control. Enables up to 5-fold increases in titers, improved quality, and production of difficult-to-express biotherapeutics.
High-performing optogenetic host cell lines and genetic tools for precise, high-titer, light-controlled gene expression. Includes gene expression control, cell state control, metabolic optimization, receptor control, and growth factor replacement.
Versatile illumination hardware adaptable to any bioreactor, enabling scalable, precise light delivery for biomanufacturing processes.
Closed-loop, model-predictive control software that dynamically adjusts light patterns and intensity to optimize cellular output and product quality.
Prolific Machines offers strategic partnerships, providing select partners with early access to their optogenetic technology. Services include proof-of-concept R&D fee-for-service, flexible commercialization models (including technical milestones, phased payments, royalties, and exclusive licenses), and customized optogenetics solutions for biotech and pharma industries.
In-house cell line development services, including engineering of optogenetic constructs into cell lines for precise, light-controlled gene expression. The platform is cell line agnostic and supports both CHO and bovine cell lines, or partners’ own lines.
Application Area
Services
Key People
Chief Executive Officer & Co-Founder
Chief Technology Officer & Co-Founder
Chief Data Officer & Co-Founder
Senior Director, Technical Operations
Chief Financial Officer
Chief of Staff
News & Updates
Prolific’s Photomolecular platform recognized as one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2024.
Received a grant from the Gates Foundation to develop an antibody therapeutics platform for improving global access to lifesaving drugs.
Completed construction of pilot facilities at Emeryville HQ, unlocking 200-liter production capacity—the world’s largest optogenetics scale to date.
Produced the world’s first meatball grown with light, outperforming animal- and plant-based meatballs in blind taste tests.
TIME recognizes Prolific Machines’ photomolecular platform as one of the Best Inventions of 2024.
Article in Grow Everything about Prolific’s approach to using light for cellular control.
Food Business News discusses Prolific’s role in advancing cultured meat technology.
The Spoon explores Prolific’s use of light in cultivated meat production.
Prolific Machines receives a Gates Foundation grant to improve global access to antibody therapeutics.
SynBioBeta covers the Gates Foundation’s support for Prolific’s antibody democratization mission.
Endpoints News reports on Gates Foundation’s backing of Prolific Machines.
FoodNavigator reports on Prolific’s $55M Series B1 funding round.
Green Queen covers Prolific’s $55M raise and platform for cultivated meat and proteins.
San Francisco Business Times details Prolific’s Series B1 funding and technology.
AgFunder covers Prolific’s funding and optogenetics platform.
TechCrunch reports on Prolific’s Series B and platform for protein production.
The Information profiles Prolific’s founders and their vision for food tech.
Fast Company discusses Prolific’s role in the future of cultivated meat.
SALT features Prolific Machines in a video about food innovation.
Global AgInvesting Media covers Prolific’s emergence and funding rounds.
Green Queen reports on celebrity-backed funding for Prolific Machines.
Vegconomist details Prolific’s Series A and technology for cultivated meat.
TechCrunch covers Prolific’s approach to scalable cell growth.
Business Wire reports on Prolific’s $42M raise for biological manufacturing.
Mayfield shares insights from investing in Prolific Machines.
AgFunderNews covers Prolific’s funding to reduce cultivated meat costs.
Cultured Meat and Future Food podcast features Deniz Kent discussing Prolific’s mission.
Prolific Machines was selected to join the FDA's Emerging Technology Program, advancing its novel biomanufacturing platform.
Appointment of a former Catalent CSO to the Board of Directors, strengthening leadership for future growth.
Completion of optogenetic bioproduction at 200L scale, marking the world’s largest demonstration of optogenetics to date.
Christina Perry joins as CFO, setting the stage for commercial ramp-up in biopharmaceuticals.