A novel protein with dual function: a key for optimal carbon and energy storage in algal cells

Culture de microalgues et gouttelettes de lipides

Microalgae and Bioenergy BIAM researchers have identified a key protein, ABHD1, which plays a central role in the management of lipid droplets, the cell’s energy and carbon reservoirs. In addition to deepening our understanding of fundamental cellular mechanisms, this discovery could revolutionize algae engineering by improving cellular oil content, and opening up new perspectives in […]

When daughter cells take flight: thank you, kinase!

Microalgae and biomass BIAM scientists have identified the crucial role of a plant-specific kinase in regulating daughter cell hatching in microalgae. This breakthrough enables better management of cell wall degradation, facilitating the release of daughter cells and biomass production. One of the main challenges in using microalgae to produce fuel is to understand how to […]

i-PhD Grand Prix

Alcasun, the biosourced revolution: Exclusive interview with the winner Alcasun is a biotech start-up project targeting cosmetics, green chemistry and bioenergy markets. The founders of this future startup have succeeded in isolating an algal enzyme capable, in the presence of blue light, of converting fatty acids into hydrocarbons (or alkanes) for cosmetic use. Alcasun’s ambition […]

CO2 sequestration by algae:
the energy source behind the process unveiled

An international collaboration between BIAM researchers and the Carnegie Institution for Science in Stanford (USA) has revealed how solar energy is supplied to metabolic reactions of algal cells to fuel atmospheric CO2 fixation. This discovery provides an understanding of the fundamental basis for efficient CO2 sequestration by microalgae. These images show where the mitochondria are […]

Unlocking Plant Resilience: Evolutionary Synergy in Stress Adaptation

A groundbreaking mechanism enabling plants to optimize their photosynthesis has been unveiled by a scientific collaboration led by the BIAM. Remarkably, this discovery involves molecules of bacterial origin, and opens promising avenues for developing agriculture that is more resilient to climate change. Chlorophyll fluorescence images of plants for analysis of photosynthetic activity Photosynthesis, fundamental to […]

Challenge Elan Eco Energies 2023 awards ceremony at the CEA

Two innovative projects from BIAM rewarded and supported by CEA On January 23rd, the CEA’s General Management organized the award ceremony for the Elan Eco Energies Challenge 2023. The event took place in the presence of Laurence Piketty, Deputy General Administrator of CEA, Marie-Astrid Ravon-Berenguer, Financial and Programs Director, and Armelle Mesnard, Director of Sustainable […]