Portuguese biotechnology company Solfarcos is seeking new partnerships with US companies to develop innovative peptide- and protein-based products, drawing on the technology behind the development of K18.
Based in Braga, Solfarcos develops proprietary solutions for the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, offering licensing models and consultancy services in peptides and proteins. The company aims to expand the application of its technologies into other sectors, including through partnerships with US companies.
Solfarcos’ peptide technology, licensed from the University of Minho, replicates the structure of human keratin and was used in the formulations of K18 haircare products. K18 was acquired by Unilever in 2024.
The company also uses computational methods, including AI-assisted modelling, to accelerate the development of biotechnology solutions.
In Europe, Solfarcos is completing Phase 2a clinical trials for a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis based on peptide-functionalised liposomal methotrexate, reinforcing its focus on pharmaceutical applications.
The company’s expansion into the United States aims to bring its scientific and technological expertise to new markets and applications.
