Catsalyze

Catsalyze is a deeptech start-up based in Nancy, France, born from a technology transfer between the University of Lorraine, CNRS, and INSERM, and supported by a two-year maturation program with SATT SAYENS. We are currently hosted at the Biopôle of Lorraine and incubated at Incubateur Lorrain.

We have developed a patented Enzymatic Scaffolding Technology that dramatically enhances enzyme performance—boosting stability, solubility, recyclability, and catalytic efficiency—for next-generation cell-free biocatalysis. This breakthrough enables the production of high-value biosourced molecules through enzymatic cascade reactions with minimal environmental impact.

Our initial focus is on the flavor & fragrance and cosmetics industries, with two flagship molecules: natural acetoin (a flavoring and precursor to SAF) and natural vanillin, both produced from low-value industrial co-products like glycerol and ferulic acid. Our short-term goal is to scale these processes to TRL 8–9 and reach industrial demonstration within the next 18 months.

In parallel, we are expanding our R&D pipeline to explore the synthesis of other sustainable and high-value molecules using our technology platform. Our long-term ambition is to become a global leader in sustainable chemistry by offering scalable, fossil-free alternatives for fine chemicals and ingredients.

Catsalyze is led by a complementary team of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, supported by an experienced advisory board and strong academic and industrial partnerships. We are now preparing a new fundraising round to scale up, commercialize our first molecules, and expand into new markets.