Viome bags over $86 million, inks CVS deal for at-home gut microbiome tests

Viome Life Sciences said Friday that it closed an $86.5-million oversubscribed Series C funding round and launched its gut microbiome test in 200 CVS locations across the US. The startup plans to use the proceeds to further develop its suite of advanced personalised health tests and support retail expansion efforts. CEO Naveen Jain said Viome is empowering its customers with "an individualised nutrition strategy, cutting through the noise of temporary trends and one-size-fits-all advice."

The company's data-driven approach uses artificial intelligence and advanced algorithms to analyse the "world's largest" gene expression dataset from over 600,000 samples. Users can purchase Viome's at-home tests to receive personalised nutritional guidance and microbiome health products. The company also offers an at-home oral and throat cancer detection test, which received an FDA breakthrough device designation in 2021.

Monitoring gut health

According to the company, its Gut Intelligence test is the first of its kind to be available in CVS both online and in-store. The test allows individuals to monitor and address gut imbalances or symptoms related to poor gut health. Viome also recently unveiled its Oral Health Solutions, including an Oral Health Intelligence test, which applies the company's RNA sequencing technology to promote overall health and protect against harmful oral microbial activity.

Khosla Ventures, Bold Capita, and WRG Ventures contributed to the round, while other existing and new investors participated, bringing Viome's total fundraise to $175 million.

In 2021, Viome expanded a partnership with GSK to research and develop potentially new therapeutic interventions within the fields of chronic diseases, including autoimmune diseases and cancers.

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