Interest Group in Algae and Plant and Lipidomics

Why Algae and plant Lipidomics?

Plants and algae possess unique lipid compositions that are crucial for their cellular membranes and energy storage, and play essential roles in biological processes such as photosynthesis, stress responses, and signaling pathways. The lipidome of these organisms is highly complex and dynamic, exhibiting significant plasticity in response to environmental conditions and stress agents.

Terrestrial plants are rich in essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) such as linoleic and linolenic acids (C18:2n-6 and C18:3n-3, respectively), while algae are known for their long-chain omega-3 PUFAs, including eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid (20:5n-3 and 22:6n-3). These lipids are increasingly sought after by consumers due to their health benefits and the rising incidence of chronic diseases, driving demand for natural sources of healthy lipids.

The adaptability of plants and algae offers valuable insights into their biology and holds vast potential for biotechnological applications, contributing significantly to sustainable development and human well-being. Recent advances in lipidomic analytical techniques have enhanced our understanding of this field, promoting further exploration and application of these lipids.

Goals

  • Build a Collaborative Network: Establish a network of researchers and professionals dedicated to advancing research and promoting knowledge exchange in the field of algal and plant lipidomics.
  • Enhance Lipidomic Understanding: Leverage algal and plant lipidomics to improve lipid analysis techniques, understand lipid metabolism and biochemistry, and apply this knowledge in food science, nutrition, and biotechnology.
  • Promote Scientific Innovation: Foster collaboration across disciplines to explore the potential of lipids as biomarkers for environmental stressors and climate change, and to drive biotechnological innovations.

Main lines of interest

Perform detailed analyses and mapping of lipid profiles across various macro and microalgae species.

Study plant and algal physiological and molecular responses to environmental stressors and climate changes.

Investigate the health benefits of algal lipids and their potential roles in preventing and managing non-communicable diseases.

Focus on sustainable cultivation techniques and environmentally friendly production practices.

Explore the use of algal lipids in biotechnological applications, including in food products, feed, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, cosmeceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and other innovations.

Activities

  • Regular meetings

    Organize regular virtual and in-person meetings to discuss ongoing research, share findings, and plan collaborative projects.

  • Research Collaboration

    Facilitate partnerships between academic institutions and industry professionals to enhance research outcomes.

  • Workshops

    Host annual workshops to disseminate knowledge, showcase advancements, and foster networking opportunities within the lipidomics community.

  • Funding and Grants

    Collaborate to identify and secure funding opportunities and grants that support research initiatives and innovative projects.

  • Publications and Reports

    Produce and disseminate publications to highlight research progress and share findings in the field of algal and plant lipidomics.

Who we want to target

  • Research & Academia

    Scientists from fields such as marine biology, biochemistry, human and animal nutrition, and environmental science, with interest in alga and plant lipids.

  • Industry Professionals

    Experts from food, feed, biotechnology, and cosmetic industries interested in innovative applications of algal lipids.

  • Policymakers

    Focused on sustainable development and environmental conservation

  • Health professionals

    Nutritionists, dietitians, and healthcare providers interested in the health benefits of algal lipids

Main Contacts

Rosário Domingues

mrd@ua.pt

Guy Schleyer

guy.schleyer@nioz.nl

Diana Lopes

dianasalzedaslopes@ua.pt

Felisa
Rey

felisa.rey@ua.pt

Isabel Medina

juliette.jouhet@cea.fr

CA19105 – Pan-European Network in Lipidomics and EpiLipidomics

CSO Approval Date: 24 March 2020
Start Date: 13 October 2020
End Date: 12 October 2024
EpiLipidNET aims to build and maintain a multidisciplinary pan-European network of researchers, clinicians and enterprises working in the field of lipidomics and epilipidomics to boost a hub of research excellence, advanced knowledge and technology transfer, to promote high level of training for young researchers and facilitate clinical translation.