KUALA LUMPUR, 19 May 2026 – Researchers from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) showcased a microbiome-based healthcare innovation at the International Invention, Innovation and Technology Exhibition 2026, reflecting the growing global shift toward sustainable therapeutic approaches in addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Among the innovations presented was Lassica K014™, a smart postbiotic technology developed by Associate Professor Dr. Tan Joo Shun and his research team from the School of Industrial Technology, USM. The innovation introduces a microbiome-centred intervention aimed at addressing the increasing global challenge of antibiotic-resistant pathogens.

Derived from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum K014 isolated from fermented cabbage, Lassica K014™ demonstrated inhibition rates exceeding 90 percent against several clinically significant pathogens, including resistant bacterial and fungal strains. Unlike conventional antimicrobial approaches that focus solely on pathogen elimination, the technology emphasises restoring microbial balance while suppressing harmful microorganisms.

The innovation also demonstrated potential benefits in improving gut microbiota balance, gastrointestinal discomfort, and inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema linked to Staphylococcus aureus overgrowth. Its heat and pH stability further strengthen its industrial scalability and commercial application potential.

According to Dr. Tan, future healthcare solutions must move beyond dependency on stronger antibiotics alone.

“Future antimicrobial strategies cannot rely solely on stronger antibiotics. The greater challenge is developing biological solutions that preserve microbial equilibrium while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness against resistant pathogens,” he said.

The technology has achieved Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 9 and is currently progressing through commercialisation via a USM-linked spin-off company, supported by patent grants, trademark registrations, and international indexed publications.

Meanwhile, Vice-Chancellor of USM, Professor Dato' Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, described the innovation as a reflection of the university’s commitment to impactful and sustainable research.

“Innovations such as Lassica K014™ demonstrate how university research can contribute meaningfully to global healthcare challenges through science-driven and sustainable solutions,” he said.

The presentation of Lassica K014™ at ITEX 2026 highlights the growing role of microbiome science, biotechnology, and preventive healthcare in shaping future therapeutic strategies while strengthening long-term public health resilience.

Source: Associate Professor Dr. Tan Joo Shun, School of Industrial Technology, USM/Text: PrivinKumar Jayavanan, Media & Public Relations Centre (MPRC), USM//Editing: Associate Professor Dr. Shaik Abdul Malik Mohamed Ismail, Senior Editorial Consultant @MPRC USM