BRAIN Biotech Wins European Patent for Revolutionary CRISPR-BMC Genome Editor

BRAIN Biotech has secured a European patent for its CRISPR-BMC nuclease, a proprietary genome-editing tool. The patent, granted on March 18, 2026, covers key markets including European Unitary Patent countries, Great Britain, and Switzerland. The technology promises faster and more precise genetic modifications across a wide range of organisms.

The CRISPR-BMC system, developed within BRAIN Biotech's BRAINBioIncubator, stands alongside the company's existing BEC® nucleases. Unlike conventional CRISPR tools, this new nuclease demonstrates high activity in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes—from bacteria and yeasts to fungi, plants, and mammalian cells. Its versatility allows for targeted genome edits in diverse biological systems.

BRAIN Biotech applies the technology primarily to optimise microbial strains for industrial production. These engineered organisms manufacture biomolecules such as enzymes, proteins, and small molecules with improved efficiency. Alexander Pelzer, Head of R&D, highlighted the system's speed and precision, noting that it accelerates the development of custom production strains for clients.

The patent (EP4301852 B1) grants the company exclusive rights to use CRISPR-BMC in its own research and commercial projects. Adriaan Moelker, CEO of BRAIN Biotech, stated that this protection reinforces their market position in cost-effective, microorganism-based manufacturing. The company has already licensed the technology to several partners and plans to expand these agreements further.

Patent applications for CRISPR-BMC are also underway in eight additional regions: the USA, Japan, Canada, China, South Korea, Australia, and Israel. Each is at different stages of examination, potentially broadening the technology's global reach.

With the patent now in force, BRAIN Biotech gains full control over CRISPR-BMC's commercial and research applications. The technology's ability to edit genomes across multiple species opens doors for advanced biomanufacturing. Licensing expansion remains a key focus as the company seeks to grow its industry partnerships.