NUQO aligns with Austrian experts to unravel mode of action of plant and algae metabolites
The Center of Excellence (CoE) Food Technology and Nutrition at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria Wels Campus is a leader in plant biochemistry. Expert based there work on various areas of food and feed development and characterization with an emphasis on the analysis of food and feeds as well as their plant-derived bioactive compounds.
Through this partnership, researchers from both the NUQO and the CoE Food Technology and Nutrition teams will collaborate on the development of analytical methods to identify and characterize metabolites from plants or algae.
“This university has a great reputation and plenty of experience working with the feed industry, co-developing new solutions, particularly in the space of feed additives and ingredients. It's a great opportunity for NUQO,” the CEO, Ewen Helary told us.
Figuring out mode of action
Under the research initiative, NUQO will work with scientists at Wels to evaluate new molecules that have feed application potential. Specific projects may be spun out and advanced in NUQO’s pipeline, with an opportunity for scientists from Wels to support the company and guide ongoing development.
“The R&D facility in Wels has several in-vitro and in-vivo models in house that will help better understand the modes of action of selected phytogenics and phycogenics, especially their effects on cytotoxicity, bioavailability, antioxidant activity and immune-modulation,” said NUQO’s technical director, Stephanie Ladirat.
The partners will also evaluate disruptive manufacturing processes based on micro-encapsulation or biotransformation for optimal application in feed.
As part of an ongoing effort to translate research in concrete technologies for the animal nutrition, NUQO said it is continuing to seek long-term partnerships with similar institutions.
