Project description
Production of innovative cosmetic ingredients in plants and plant cells
The EU-funded InnCoCells project will develop sustainable plant-based production processes for the commercial exploitation of scientifically validated cosmetic ingredients based on underutilised plant resources. Consortium members will use cell cultures, aeroponics and greenhouse/field cultivation, applying metabolic engineering tools to optimise growth conditions and the yields of valuable bioactive, small-molecule compounds and ingredients. The optimised processes will be demonstrated through pilot-scale production and subsequent product extraction/purification to bring at least ten cosmetic ingredients to the pre-commercial stage. The ingredients and extracts will be evaluated using a unique group of innovative enzyme-based and cell-based assays to ensure safety and validate claimed activities based on robust scientific data without the need for animal testing.
Objective
The InnCoCells project will develop innovative and sustainable plant-based production processes for the commercial exploitation of scientifically validated cosmetic ingredients based on underutilised plant resources. We will optimise these resources for profitable and sustainable production using cell cultures, aeroponics and greenhouse/field cultivation. We will apply systematic approaches including metabolic engineering tools to optimise growth conditions and the yields of valuable bioactive, small-molecule compounds and ingredients. The optimised processes will be demonstrated by pilot-scale production and subsequent product extraction/purification. We will bring at least ten cosmetic ingredients to the pre-commercial stage. InnCoCells includes a cascade biorefinery concept in which by-products and biowaste are utilised for the extraction of further bioactive molecules. The processes will be characterised by techno-economic assessment and life cycle analysis to ensure economic feasibility and a reduced environmental footprint. The ingredients and extracts will be evaluated using a unique panel of innovative enzyme-based and cell-based assays to ensure safety and validate claimed activities based on robust scientific data without animal testing. We will implement a unique stakeholder engagement strategy, including the assembly of a Stakeholder Group to guide our research program based on the needs of industry, academia, farmers, policymakers and consumers. The consortium includes eight SMEs and one large company from the cosmetic sector among the 17 partners to facilitate exploitation. We will develop bespoke communications strategies for different stakeholders and for public engagement. We will also interact closely with the regulatory authorities in Europe. This industry-driven and interdisciplinary project will ultimately increase the strength of the European bioeconomy by supporting the development of innovative biobased goods and markets.
Fields of science
Keywords
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
RIA - Research and Innovation actionCoordinator
02150 Espoo
Finland
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Participants (19)
4362 Esch Sur Alzette
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9052 ZWIJNAARDE - GENT
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9820 Merelbeke
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00196 Roma
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64289 Darmstadt
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1000 Bruxelles / Brussel
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Participation ended
64293 Darmstadt
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Participation ended
2600 Antwerpen
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
80142 Napoli
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
54500 Vandoeuvre Les Nancy
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
Legal entity other than a subcontractor which is affiliated or legally linked to a participant. The entity carries out work under the conditions laid down in the Grant Agreement, supplies goods or provides services for the action, but did not sign the Grant Agreement. A third party abides by the rules applicable to its related participant under the Grant Agreement with regard to eligibility of costs and control of expenditure.
5032 Gembloux Les Isnes
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
1023 Riga
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
1160 Wien
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
2086 Mirkovo
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
9019 TROMSO
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
FY5 1AP Thornton Cleveleys
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
28000 Chartres
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The organization defined itself as SME (small and medium-sized enterprise) at the time the Grant Agreement was signed.
64293 Darmstadt
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9000 Gent
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