NorthStrive Biosciences Inc., a subsidiary of PMGC Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: ELAB), announced the transfer of its EL-32 Working Cell Bank to a U.S.-based fermentation facility to begin manufacturing optimization.

EL-32 is an engineered probiotic therapeutic designed to target myostatin and activin-A pathways for muscle preservation in patients receiving GLP-1 receptor agonist weight loss therapy. The therapeutic uses an oral delivery mechanism through the gut.

Modulant Biosciences LLC, which holds a license for EL-32 development in non-human animal health applications, retained the third-party fermentation facility to conduct upstream and downstream process development. The optimization program aims to improve production yield, consistency, and manufacturability.

NorthStrive will collaborate with Modulant Biosciences on the manufacturing efforts to establish a process foundation for investigational new drug activities and future good manufacturing practices manufacturing. NorthStrive retains rights to human therapeutic applications while Modulant holds exclusive rights for animal health applications.

The collaboration represents a dual-track development strategy intended to maximize commercial potential across both human and animal health markets while sharing manufacturing and process development insights, according to the company's press release.

PMGC Holdings operates as a diversified holding company managing a portfolio through strategic acquisitions and investments across various industries.