LYVA Labs - Microbiome

The microbiome refers to the vast and diverse communities of microorganisms — bacteria, fungi, viruses, and others — that exist all around and within us. These invisible ecosystems are found in our bodies, on animals, in soils, oceans, and even industrial environments. In recent years, the microbiome has gone from scientific curiosity to a powerful frontier of innovation across health, agriculture, and sustainability.

Often called our “second brain” or even the “new genome,” the human microbiome alone makes up 90% of the cells in our bodies — and we are only beginning to grasp its profound influence on our physical and mental well-being. But the story doesn’t stop with humans. Microbiomes are critical to everything from food production and disease control to climate resilience and industrial biotechnology.

As science unlocks new ways to study, understand, and harness these microbial communities, the microbiome is emerging as a key to solving some of society’s most complex challenges.

Our new report explores how microbiome science is shaping the future of health, sustainability, and economic growth - and the world leading strengths that exist in Liverpool City Region. It sets out the current landscape, barriers to commercialisation, and recommendations for accelerating impact, alongside case studies that showcase real-world innovation.

“What I really like about this report is how it combines scientific insight with the social science aspects of business and ecosystem development — something I haven’t seen done before with this level of detail.” - Dr Halima Jibril, Assistant Professor in Entrepreneurship and Innovation (Research), Co-Investigator, Innovation and Research Caucus, Warwick Business School

Inside the report, you’ll find:

An overview of the microbiome landscape and its growing impact
Barriers holding back translation and commercialisation
Case studies showcasing innovation in action
Recommendations to unlock future opportunities for Liverpool City Region.

We work with the Liverpool City Region’s Innovation Board, alongside industry and academic leaders, to unlock transformational opportunities through collaboration. Microbiome innovation is a core focus within our consortia programme, alongside biotechnology and health innovation for inclusive growth.

In 2023, we delivered a national Innovate UK Microbials Accelerator, which supported early-stage ventures developing microbial technologies across sectors including health, food, and agriculture. Building on this, we are now delivering the Innovate UK Biomedical Catalyst Accelerator for Future Medicines, supporting early-stage ventures developing novel therapeutics, diagnostics, and digital health solutions at the intersection of biology, data, and technology.

Through these programmes, we help attract national investment, strengthen local capabilities, and enable more effective translation of research into real-world impact — delivering meaningful health, economic and social benefits.