The AtlantECO podcast is a science popularisation show, revolving around conversations between the host and a guest to discuss aspects of AtlantECO, a marine science project which focuses on the Atlantic Ocean.
Each episode lasts less than 30 minutes and is released every two weeks on Wednesdays.
The podcasts is organised around three types of episodes:
AtlantECO is funded under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 862923. The content of the podcast reflects only the participants’ view and the European Union cannot be held responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The AtlantECO podcast is a science popularisation show, revolving around conversations between the host and a guest to discuss aspects of AtlantECO, a marine science project which focuses on the Atlantic Ocean.
Each episode lasts less than 30 minutes and is released every two weeks on Wednesdays.
The podcasts is organised around three types of episodes:
AtlantECO is funded under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 862923. The content of the podcast reflects only the participants’ view and the European Union cannot be held responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of bioprospecting with Tonje Heggeset and Giang-Son Nguyen from SINTEF, a renowned research organisation in Norway. In conversation with Tonje and Giang-Son, we uncover the essence of bioprospecting, its applications, and its significance within the AtlantECO project.
First, we ask… what is bioprospecting? Bioprospecting involves exploring various natural sources like plants, animals, and microorganisms for commercially valuable substances such as medicinal drugs, biochemicals, and other materials. In the context of the project, the focus is on microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, discovered in environments rich in biodiversity. These microorganisms can potentially yield new antibiotics, anti-cancer compounds, and industrial enzymes, contributing to significant advancements in medicine and industry.
We then transition into the methodologies of bioprospecting. Our guests explain that there are two primary approaches: functional screening and genome/metagenome sequencing. Functional screening involves searching for specific activities in nature, such as antibiotics. On the other hand, genome sequencing entails identifying genes and predicting their functions using bioinformatics tools.
Within the AtlantECO project, SINTEF is in charge of molecular bioprospecting, focusing on discovering new enzymes relevant to stakeholders. This involves data mining from various sources, functional screening, and creating a database of genetic markers for biological sensors. The aim is to provide valuable enzyme candidates for diagnostics, molecular research, and other applications, contributing to the blue economy.
More on AtlantECO: www.atlanteco.eu
The AtlantECO project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 862923. This output reflects only the author’s view and the European Union cannot be held responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.