Cowellnex and Metagen Begin Joint Research Utilising High-Precision Gut Microbiota Data Obtained Independently
Cowellnex Co., Ltd., established by Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (TOKYO:2503) and Kyowa Kirin Co., Ltd., alongside Metagen, Inc. will commence research in February 2026 to develop new testing items based on gut microbiota data from Japanese residents and an algorithm for recommending foods suited to each individual based on these testing items.
The research will utilise high-precision gut microbiota data obtained independently by Cowellnex through shotgun metagenomic analysis—among the most detailed gut microbiota tests in Japan—collected over approximately three years through its “MicroBio Me” service. Both companies aim to commercialise and introduce the resulting new testing service to the market in the future.
RESEARCH BACKGROUND
Gut microbiota has attracted considerable attention in recent years from a health maintenance perspective. However, because the composition of intestinal bacteria varies significantly among individuals, dietary approaches must also differ. Consequently, indicators showing the desired gut microbiota condition for each person and practical action guidelines have not been adequately developed.
The 16S rRNA gene analysis typically used helps understand bacterial classification broadly, but provides limited information compared to shotgun metagenomic analysis. Furthermore, no academically established method currently exists for test items or food recommendations based on gut microbiota data specific to Japanese individuals.
Against this background, there is growing expectation for more accurate gut microbiota testing, test items, and personalised food recommendations based on such data.
RESEARCH SCOPE
Through the MicroBio Me business operated by Cowellnex, the company has collected highly accurate data over approximately three years using shotgun metagenomic analysis, one of the most detailed gut microbiota tests in Japan. Utilising this data, Cowellnex will create new testing parameters considering the characteristics of the intestinal environment of Japanese people and will develop an algorithm recommending foods based on these parameters.
In this joint research, Cowellnex will be responsible for providing data, formulating hypotheses for testing parameters and food recommendations, and verifying acceptance. Metagen will be responsible for conducting metabolic pathway analysis based on its expertise in gut environment research and bioinformatics, and for developing the food recommendation algorithm. Through this joint research, it will be possible to identify which gut bacteria exist and predict the entire capability of the intestinal environment—including interactions among gut bacteria—to produce beneficial metabolites.
FUTURE PROSPECTS
Cowellnex plans to commercialise the results of this joint research as a new testing service and launch it to the market. Even after the research concludes, Cowellnex will continue collecting data and studying ways to utilise it, thereby improving testing accuracy and developing materials that help regulate gut microbiota.
By leveraging its strength in high-precision data obtained through shotgun metagenomic analysis, Cowellnex will accelerate innovation in the gut microbiota field and create a market for personalised gut health solutions based on microbiota composition.
ABOUT COWELLNEX
Cowellnex Corporation was established in September 2024 as a joint venture between Kirin Holdings (50%) and Kyowa Kirin (50%).
Cowellnex creates innovation through mutually beneficial collaboration in research and development, venture capital investment, and business development, whilst committing to supporting consumers in living satisfying lives by solving social problems related to health.
ABOUT METAGEN
With the mission of “Making gut environment healthcare a new standard”, the entire group aims to realise “zero disease” through an approach based on the Gut Design® concept.
Utilising Metabologenomics®—its technology providing comprehensive understanding and functional insight into the gut environment—the company provides comprehensive support ranging from cutting-edge gut microbiome research to real-world implementation across three business areas: Research Value Enhancement, Product Development Support, and Science-Community Relations.
The company also operates the Gut Design Project, a corporate collaboration community designed to jointly create a new “Gut design market”. By December 2025, more than 40 companies had joined this initiative.
ABOUT KIRIN HOLDINGS
Kirin Holdings Company, Limited (TOKYO:2503) is an international company operating three core business areas: Alcoholic Beverages, Non-Alcoholic Beverages & Health Science, and Pharmaceuticals. Kirin Holdings traces its origins to Japan Brewery, founded in 1885, which became Kirin Brewery in 1907. Since then, Kirin has expanded its business into fermentation and biotechnology as core technologies, and began engaging in pharmaceutical business in the 1980s, which subsequently developed into a global operation. In 2007, the company transitioned to a pure holding company and currently strengthens its Non-Alcoholic Beverages & Health Science division. Based on its long-term vision “Innovate2035!”, the Kirin Group focuses on innovation.