(Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions MSCA) This project seeks to exploit the microalgae biodiversity, as a source for high-added-value lectins and polyphenols with antiviral properties against influenza and coronavirus pandemic strains. Microalgae derived-compounds are easily amendable, bio-degradable, non-toxic and safe; thus, they are preferred to be used for the development of novel bio-based materials and cosmetics with antiviral potential. Lectins and polyphenols could be highly demanded non-drug interventions across the materials and cosmetics industry as a solution to reduce the risk and speed of contamination and transmission during pandemic outbreaks.

The project will combine the whole value chain in order to:

• develop transcriptomics and metabolomics resources from microalgae diversity as a valuable source for the discovery novel lectins and polyphenols;
• characterize their spectrum of bioactivity and toxicity and provide structure-function relationships;
• develop and optimize application-based microalgae culture systems and downstream processing strategies for higher production rate of the desired compounds;
• develop, formulate and evaluate lectins and polyphenols-based final cosmetics products.

The work will be supported by market assessment, integral biorefinery designs, techno-economic and sustainability assessment. Integrated value chains will be demonstrated to deliver proof-of-concept and demonstrate economic feasibility.