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Project Code [2020-NC-PhD-11]

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Project title

Pharming of high value metabolites from transplastomic plant cells using bioreactors

Primary Funding Agency

Irish Research Council

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Environmental Protection Agency

Lead Organisation

University College Dublin (UCD)

Lead Applicant

Paul McCabe

Project Abstract

The primary aim of this project is to further the understanding of secondary metabolite pharming in bioreactors. The first goal is to establish cell cultures from transplastomic plants which produce high levels of astaxanthin and select high yielding cell lines. Once established, I will then optimise astaxanthin production in bioreactors. Bioreactor growth conditions will be optimised for cell growth and division, plastid development, heterotrophic growth, and metabolite production. I can then determine optimal light conditions for astaxanthin production. Programmed Cell Death (PCD) rates will also be monitored in bioreactors. The final aim is to create a cannabinoid transplastomic cell line using Nicotiana tabacum.

Grant Approved

�96,000.00

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Natural capital and ecosystem services including soils and biodiversity

Start Date

01/10/2020

Initial Projected Completion Date

30/09/2024