The search for microorganisms with differentiated functional properties is currently one of the main drivers of innovation in the food, pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. In this context, within the BIOPROSPECT project we have worked on the identification, characterisation and functional validation of new microbial strains through advanced microbial bioprospecting strategies, combined with technological tools that streamline and optimise their evaluation.
BIOPROSPECT has enabled us to expand knowledge and obtain lactic acid bacteria (LAB) with fermentative and probiotic potential, while also developing an automated platform for microbial growth screening and monitoring, clearly oriented towards future industrial application.
Video: BIOPROSPECT results and technological approach
In this video, we present the main results of the project and the technological approach developed to identify and evaluate microorganisms of interest from deep marine environments and human samples, as well as their potential to generate new biotechnological solutions.
Microbial bioprospecting in diverse environments to expand microbial biodiversity
Within BIOPROSPECT, microbial bioprospecting was approached through two complementary sources. On the one hand, sampling campaigns were carried out in deep-sea environments, with the aim of identifying underexplored microbial genera with biotechnological potential. On the other hand, we worked with human samples from infants, a particularly relevant source for isolating lactic acid bacteria associated with the intestinal ecosystem.
From these sources, more than 100 bacterial strains were isolated and subjected to a structured screening and selection process.
Genotypic and functional characterisation of selected strains
A significant proportion of the isolated strains underwent comprehensive genotypic characterisation using sequencing techniques, enabling a full genetic profile to be obtained. This approach allowed us to assess the safety of each microorganism and to identify functional properties of industrial interest.
In parallel, an extensive phenotypic characterisation was carried out, evaluating key parameters such as tolerance to adverse conditions, fermentative capacity and probiotic potential. These studies were supported by in vitro assays to assess resistance to gastrointestinal transit and colonic fermentation, as well as the ability of the microorganisms to adhere to epithelial models, providing relevant information on their probiotic potential.
The results confirm that several of the evaluated strains exhibit resistance to acidic pH and bile salts, favourable fermentative behaviour and effective interaction with epithelial models, reinforcing their interest for applications in food and health.
Automated platform for microbial screening and monitoring
As a key technological outcome of the project, BIOPROSPECT has led to the development of an automated platform that enables high-throughput screening and real-time monitoring of microbial growth under different substrates and experimental conditions.
This tool has made it possible to optimise evaluation times, improve assay reproducibility and facilitate objective comparison between strains, thereby accelerating decision-making processes for strain selection with a view to scale-up and industrial application.
Validation of industrial potential in dairy and plant-based matrices
The project involved collaboration with the companies ALNUT, DACSA and NATRA, with whom studies have been initiated to assess the industrial application potential of the selected strains. In this framework, the fermentative capacity of previously characterised strains was evaluated using whole milk as a raw material, with the aim of developing yoghurt without the need for additional starter cultures.
In parallel, fermentation trials were carried out in plant-based matrices, including flour and other substrates, opening the door to the development of innovative products adapted to different markets and aligned with emerging trends in food and biotechnology.
Microbial bioprospecting as a driver of biotechnological innovation
The results of BIOPROSPECT confirm the value of microbial bioprospecting as a strategy to identify microorganisms with differentiated properties and to accelerate their transfer towards real-world applications. The combination of microbial biodiversity, advanced functional assays and automated screening tools strengthens our ability to generate biotechnological solutions with industrial impact.
At AINIA, these advances consolidate our position as a technology partner for companies seeking to innovate in the development of ingredients, fermentative processes and solutions based on functional microorganisms.
This initiative was supported by the Conselleria d’Innovació, Indústria, Comerç i Turisme of the Generalitat Valenciana, through IVACE, and co-funded by the European Union through the FEDER Comunitat Valenciana 2021–2027 Programme, contributing to the positioning of the Valencian Community in the development of microorganism-based biotechnology, fermentation innovation and knowledge transfer towards high value-added industrial and food applications.
