BASF and Bota Biosciences have launched SkinNexus Collag3n, a recombinant, 100% human-identical vegan Collagen III fragment developed using AI-driven screening.
Unveiled at in-cosmetics Global 2026, the ingredient marks the first commercial outcome of the companies’ collaboration in bio-based personal care and beauty innovation.
The development combined Bota’s Physical AI-powered biofoundry platform with BASF’s expertise in cosmetic actives. More than 2,000 collagen fragments were screened while industrial-scale production feasibility was assessed in parallel, accelerating the path from molecule discovery to commercialization.
Produced through yeast fermentation, SkinNexus Collag3n features a sequence identical to human Collagen III. According to the companies, testing in 3D dermis models showed significant improvements in collagen homeostasis, boosting Collagen I by 48%, Collagen III by 82%, and Collagen V by 71%.
Clinical studies involving women aged 53 to 70 also demonstrated visible reductions in skin sagging and wrinkle appearance after four weeks. BASF says the ingredient outperformed a benchmark collagen ingredient despite being used at one-tenth of the concentration.
According to BASF and Bota Biosciences, SkinNexus Collag3n exemplifies how AI, synthetic biology, and industrial biomanufacturing can accelerate the commercialization of next-generation bio-identical ingredients.
“This collaboration is proof that Physical AI for Biomanufacturing can turn cutting-edge science into commercial, sustainable, and high-performance ingredients,” said Dr. Cheryl Cui, Founder and CEO of Bota Biosciences.
