{
  "id": 19897392,
  "title": "Singapore start-up taps peptide power to tackle pet infections, seeks to replace chemical preservatives",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/14/singapore-start-up-taps-peptide-power-to-tackle-pet-infections-seeks",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-11-14T01:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Straits Times",
    "slug": "straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/singapore-start-up-taps-peptide-power-to-tackle-pet-infections-seeks-to-replace-chemical"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Singapore-based start-up Healbac is leveraging the power of peptide technology to tackle pet infections and replace chemical preservatives in processed foods. Founded as a spin-off from A*STAR in November 2025, the biotech company has developed stem-cell-derived antimicrobial peptides that target and kill germs. While initially intended to replace chemical preservatives like sodium nitrite in meats and deli items, the peptides show promise for veterinary applications as well.\n\nAntibiotics are often prescribed to treat pet infections, but they can lead to antibiotic resistance and expensive, lengthy treatments. Healbac's peptides offer a safer alternative, as they can effectively treat infections without the potential for resistance. In a recent case, a French bulldog's skin infection cleared within three days of using a topical cream containing the peptide.\n\nHealbac is currently testing its peptide-based solution in collaboration with six vet clinics in Singapore, focusing on treating infections in cats and dogs. The company aims to validate the product's effectiveness through clinical data before considering commercialization, which could extend to other potential applications.",
  "summary": "Healbac is working with six Singapore vet clinics to test its peptide against infections in cats and dogs.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}