Project description
Microalgae ramp up production of one of the most powerful antioxidants
Astaxanthin belongs to the carotenoid class, a group of common pigments found in red and yellow plants as well as algae and bacteria. It is also one of the most powerful antioxidants around. Antioxidants are literally compounds that are 'against oxidation'. More specifically, they protect cells from free radicals, unstable molecules produced as a result of oxidation reactions associated with normal metabolic processes. Antioxidants are important additives to products we eat or put on our skin because they may help protect us against cancer, heart disease, stroke and various conditions related to the ageing process. Microalgae have become the most promising sources for the industrial production of astaxanthin, and the EU-funded ASTEASY project is exploiting that potential, bringing to market its process to significantly increase astaxanthin yield, decrease production time and cut costs.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
ERC-POC-LS - ERC Proof of Concept Lump Sum PilotHost institution
37129 Verona
Italy
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Beneficiaries (1)
37129 Verona
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