Objective
Ginkgo biloba extracts are among the most widely used plant-based health supplements in the United States and Europe. However, increasing demand has led to unsustainable overharvesting, resulting in Ginkgo biloba being classified as an endangered species. These extracts contain bioactive compounds, such as ginkgolides and bilobalide. Bilobalide, in particular, is valued for its neuroprotective, anti-ischemic, and insect-repellent properties, with potential applications in treating Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, sclerosis, and as a biopesticide.
To address these societal and environmental challenges, this project aims to develop a scalable, sustainable production platform for bilobalide using synthetic biology in baker’s yeast. This approach will reduce pressure on G. biloba populations, contributing to biodiversity preservation while promoting innovative biotechnological solutions to meet the demand for natural products. A central focus of this research is to elucidate the biosynthetic pathway of bilobalide, which remains poorly understood.
It is hypothesized that bilobalide is synthesized either via sesquiterpenoid pathways or through the degradation of ginkgolides. Using complementary experimental systems in yeast and tobacco, I will systematically test both hypotheses to uncover the key biosynthetic steps. Once the bilobalide biosynthesis pathway is elucidated, I will engineer it in baker’s yeast to create a cost-effective, scalable, and sustainable production system.
This project will leverage the tools and datasets available in the host lab, along with my expertise in plant secondary metabolism and pathway gene characterization, to achieve its goals. It aligns with the European Union’s priorities of fostering innovation, sustainability, and natural resource conservation, while advancing biotechnology for health and agriculture. Ultimately, this research will contribute to the green transition and aid in the conservation of endangered species like G. biloba.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
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Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.2 - Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-TMA-MSCA-PF-EF - HORIZON TMA MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowships - European Fellowships
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) HORIZON-MSCA-2024-PF-01
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
1165 KOBENHAVN
Denmark
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.