Bolt Threads and Ginkgo Bioworks, a horizontal platform for cell programming, are embarking on a multi-project collaboration to increase the production efficiency and performance of Mylo mycelium as well as expanding the range by developing novel proteins for biomaterials.

The first programme in this collaboration aims to optimise the production efficiency of Bolt’s Mylo – a leather alternative made from mycelium, the underground root-like system of fungi.

In the Bolt Threads production process, mycelium grows into a foamy layer that, once harvested, can be dyed and processed into sheets of material that can be customised to the desired size, colour, shape and thicknesses.

 Mylo can be used in footwear, handbags, wallets, phone cases and other products, and is already in use by brands including adidas, Stella McCartney, Ganni and lululemon. Unlike traditional leather made from animal hides, mycelium leather does not rely on raising livestock, and unlike synthetic leather, isn’t petroleum-derived.

Through this collaboration, Ginkgo aims to increase the growth rate of Bolt’s mycelium, lowering overall production costs.

“Over the last few years, the largest fashion brands worldwide and the textiles industry have collectively recognised the need to develop more sustainable and low-footprint materials,” said Jason Kelly, CEO and co-founder, Ginkgo Bioworks. “Bolt Threads is at the forefront of this shift, and Mylo represents this future. We are excited to leverage our Foundry and Codebase to help drive down the cost of producing Mylo, making the product more accessible to a variety of markets where exciting alternative materials can be used.”

“Ginkgo’s expertise in engineering biology has already enabled us to accelerate our work, transforming the clean beauty and personal care industries with b-silk protein,” said David Breslauer, co-founder and CTO at Bolt Threads. “We are thrilled to be partnering with them again to optimize the production of our mycelium technology which will help make Mylo more accessible to consumers and brands alike.”

www.boltthreads.com

www.ginkgobioworks.com