The BIOPROSPECT project, developed by AINIA with the support of IVACE and European funding, focuses on the search and evaluation of microorganisms with functional properties for use in food and health applications. The initiative has succeeded in isolating more than 100 strains and launching a platform that facilitates their analysis and selection, contributing to biotechnological innovation in the industry.
Bioprospecting to expand microbial biodiversity
The BIOPROSPECT project has focused on the search for microorganisms in different natural environments, with the aim of identifying lactic acid bacteria with functional properties. These strains show potential to improve fermentation processes and provide probiotic benefits, contributing to the development of innovative solutions in food and health.
Functional characterization and validation
The selected strains have been subjected to genetic analysis and in vitro tests that simulate the conditions of the digestive system. The results confirm key properties such as resistance to acidic pH and bile salts, fermentative capacity and probiotic behaviour, making them candidates for applications in food and health.
Technological innovation to accelerate selection
Within the framework of the project, an automated platform has also been developed that enables high-throughput screening and real-time monitoring of microbial growth. This tool optimises time, improves reproducibility and facilitates decision-making for industrial scale-up.
The BIOPROSPECT project is supported by the Conselleria dInnovació, Indústria, Comerç i Turisme of the Generalitat Valenciana, through IVACE, and is funded by the European Union through the FEDER Comunitat Valenciana Programme 2021-2027.
