From ancient wisdom to cutting-edge science, discover how the region is transforming into a biotechnology leader
Imagine a future where genetic insights from the Amazon help cure devastating diseases, where AI-powered discoveries create sustainable solutions for global food security, and where ancient fermentation practices inspire modern medical breakthroughs. This isn't science fiction—it's the vibrant reality of biotechnology in Latin America today.
As the region prepares to host its first Latin-American Congress in Biotechnology, a remarkable convergence is taking place. Megadiverse ecosystems containing 40% of the world's biodiversity are merging with a booming deep-tech sector, where biotechnology represents a staggering 61% of startups backed by institutional investors 4 .
This congress marks a pivotal moment—the dawn of Latin America's "Bio-Century," where the region is transitioning from a repository of biological resources to a global leader in creating transformative biological solutions that could impact an estimated $2-4 trillion of the global economy by 2040 4 .
of deep-tech startups in Latin America are in biotechnology
of world's biodiversity concentrated in Latin America
potential global economic impact by 2040
Long before the term "biotechnology" entered our vocabulary, Latin America's indigenous communities were already master practitioners of biological engineering. Recent research has uncovered the remarkable sophistication of these traditions, which European colonial powers often dismissed as primitive superstition 2 .
These weren't merely cultural practices—they were sophisticated bioprocesses that anticipated fundamental principles of modern science.
Consider masato de yuca, a traditional fermented cassava beverage from the Peruvian Amazon. Modern microbiological analysis reveals a complex microbial ecosystem with diverse communities of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) including Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Limosilactobacillus fermentum, Pediococcus acidilactici, and Weissella confusa working in concert 2 .
Today, this rich legacy of biological innovation is merging with cutting-edge technology to create a dynamic biotech ecosystem. Latin America's unique advantages are driving this transformation:
One of the most exciting areas where traditional knowledge meets modern biotechnology is in the systematic analysis of indigenous fermentation processes. A crucial experiment that exemplifies this approach involves the comprehensive microbiological and biochemical characterization of masato de yuca, building on generations of indigenous wisdom to identify novel probiotic strains and bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications.
Researchers collected multiple samples of masato from different indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon, following ethical protocols for indigenous knowledge partnership and benefit-sharing.
Using selective culture media including de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe (MRS) agar for lactic acid bacteria, they isolated pure cultures of microorganisms through streak plating techniques.
The researchers performed DNA extraction from bacterial colonies, followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the 16S rRNA gene—a standard genetic marker for bacterial identification—and sequenced the amplified genes.
They employed high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to identify and quantify organic acids, ethanol, and other metabolic products resulting from the fermentation process.
Isolated bacterial strains were tested for acid tolerance, bile salt resistance, antimicrobial activity against pathogens, and adhesion to intestinal epithelial cells—key properties for potential probiotic applications.
The experiment revealed that what appeared to colonial observers as a simple fermented beverage was in fact a sophisticated biotechnological process. The findings demonstrated that masato fermentation involves complex microbial consortia that transform the chemical composition of cassava, enhancing both its safety and nutritional profile.
| Bacterial Strain | Relative Abundance (%) | Key Functional Attributes |
|---|---|---|
| Lactiplantibacillus plantarum | 45% | Acid production, pathogen inhibition |
| Limosilactobacillus fermentum | 30% | Ethanol production, biofortification |
| Pediococcus acidilactici | 15% | Preservative effects, shelf-life extension |
| Weissella confusa | 10% | Exopolysaccharide production, texture modification |
| Metabolite | Raw Cassava (g/L) | Fermented Masato (g/L) | Functional Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Succinic Acid | 0.1 | 2.69 | Enhanced flavor, potential health benefits |
| Acetic Acid | 0.05 | 0.9 | Antimicrobial activity, detoxification |
| Lactic Acid | 0.08 | 1.4 | Improved preservation, probiotic environment |
| Ethanol | 0.0 | 0.52 | Mild intoxication, extraction enhancement |
The scientific importance of these findings extends far beyond documenting traditional practices. They reveal how indigenous fermentation systems represent early forms of microbial biotechnology that enhance food safety, nutritional value, and bioavailability of bioactive compounds. Contemporary microbiologists are now isolating promising probiotic strains from these ancient fermented beverages for development of new functional foods and therapies 2 .
The biotechnology revolution is unfolding across Latin America, with different countries leveraging unique strengths to create specialized niches in the global landscape.
Notable Companies: Bioceres ($0.5-1B valuation)
Key Advantages: Strong agricultural research heritage
Notable Companies: Kaiima, Biotimize ($100-500M valuation)
Key Advantages: Vast biodiversity, established research infrastructure
Notable Companies: Phage Lab ($100-500M valuation)
Key Advantages: Stable business environment, government support
Notable Companies: Eva ($50-100M valuation)
Key Advantages: Manufacturing capabilities, proximity to US market
Notable Companies: Clearleaf, Speratum, Cenibiot ($10-25M valuation)
Key Advantages: Green technology focus, political stability
Notable Companies: Ecosativa, Enteria, Germinar ($1-5M valuation)
Key Advantages: Collaborative ecosystem, research talent
Modern biotechnology research relies on sophisticated tools and techniques that build upon both traditional methods and cutting-edge innovations. Here are the essential components driving Latin America's bio-revolution:
These molecular scissors allow precise DNA manipulation, enabling researchers to develop targeted therapies for genetic diseases and improved crop varieties. Latin American scientists are increasingly applying these tools to study regionally relevant species and conditions 7 .
Artificial intelligence platforms like DeepVariant help researchers quickly identify genetic variations linked to diseases, enhancing diagnostics and supporting the development of targeted therapies tailored to diverse populations 7 .
These microfluidic devices simulate human organ functions, accelerating drug testing and safety profiling while potentially reducing animal testing. With over 70 models developed globally and substantial venture funding, these technologies represent the future of personalized medicine 3 .
Automation using robotics and liquid handling systems allows researchers to rapidly test thousands of compounds, significantly accelerating the drug discovery process while improving accuracy 7 .
By programming biological systems to produce specific compounds, researchers can develop sustainable alternatives to petrochemical products, from biofuels to biodegradable plastics 7 .
Advanced spectroscopic techniques enable precise characterization of biomolecules, essential for understanding complex biological systems and validating therapeutic compounds .
The 1st Latin-American Congress in Biotechnology represents more than just a scientific conference—it marks the emergence of a unified biotech ecosystem poised to make significant contributions to global health, sustainable agriculture, and environmental conservation.
Latin America's rich ecosystems provide an invaluable resource for biological discovery and innovation.
Ancient wisdom and traditional practices offer insights that complement modern scientific approaches.
A growing pool of skilled professionals is driving innovation across the biotechnology sector.
As researchers continue to bridge traditional knowledge with cutting-edge science, Latin America is not just participating in the global bio-revolution—it's leading it, creating a future where biological innovation improves lives both within the region and around the world.