In the Animal Nutrition Working Group, we bridge algae biotechnology with animal performance.
We specialize in functional ingredients validation for aquaculture commercial species using an advanced ex vivo platform. By utilizing fish and shrimp intestinal mucosa, we perform high-resolution screening of added-value microalgae and macroalgae, benchmarking with other additives. Our expertise
Our group incorporates alternative methodologies through molecular innovation associated with in vitro and ex vivo approaches. Using transcriptomics and metagenomics, we evaluate how algae biomass and other ingredients affect animal health through cross-kingdom modulation. By applying a reverse nutraceutical and functional approach we identify specific biomarkers to measure performance optimization, focusing on bioactivity and the gut mucosal microbiome interface.
We develop prototypes to boost animal performance. By defining animal needs, we direct the selection of strains or fractions to improve bioavailability and functionality. Our research focuses on added-value nutrients that support mucosal microbiome and optimize the responses. This is completed by a strong collaboration within GreenCoLab’s specialized groups and along a strong and aligned network.
Led by Ana Teresa Gonçalves, our team offers deep expertise in nutrigenomics, functional feeds and animal health management. Powered by Rute Felix, Soraia Santos, Anna Strizhack, Rafael Vitorino and Daniel Figueiredo, we provide scientific direction and robustness for algae application in precision animal functional nutrition and nutraceuticals.
We provide specialized screening and bioactivity analysis services that includes an ex vivo functional screening platform for aquafeed additives and alternative ingredients. Our services include tailor-made analytical panels to evaluate health and performance for aquaculture species, bioactivity assessments, and advanced microbiome analysis for health management. We offer expert data analysis for transcriptomics and metagenomics to guide the industrial scale-up of animal health solutions.
Our group integrates molecular biology, microbiology and in vitro/ex vivo cultures to guide algae applications and animal health management. We are equipped for the cultivation and identification of gut and skin bacteria, following safety protocols for pathogens and mucosa microbial modulation. As a hub for bioassays, in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo assessments, we validate prototypes and strains to ensure performance in aquaculture species. With high throughput molecular technology, we evaluate the mode of action of ingredients, and guide our innovations.
We develop cutting-edge prototypes that transform innovation and scientific advances into tangible, real-world solutions
