Project Coordinator: Pr Samri Salah Ed-dine ( Ibn Tofail University)
Project Period: 2023-2025
Funding Partners:
- Morocco: MESRSI (Direction of Scientific Research and Innovation)
- Switzerland: The Leading House for the Middle East and North Africa (LHMENA)
Description:
The ActinOmics project, proposed as part of the cooperation program between Switzerland and Morocco, is an original and innovative initiative to study the biotechnological potential of a unique ecosystem: the Marchica Lagoon. The isolation of new indigenous strains will lead to the discovery of novel natural compounds with potential therapeutic applications. Furthermore, the project will provide the first scientific insights into the microbial biodiversity of this unexplored habitat through an in-depth genomic analysis of selected actinobacteria strains.
Expected Outcomes:
This project will expand current scientific knowledge and provide new data on the microbial biodiversity of Moroccan aquatic environments, specifically the Marchica Lagoon. Exploring these habitats will facilitate their valorization through the discovery of biotechnologically relevant compounds with applications in various technological fields, including therapeutics.
Activities Undertaken:
- A sampling campaign was conducted in December 2023.
- Preliminary screening of actinobacteria isolates was performed to determine their capacity to produce bioactive molecules.
- Morphological and cultural isolates were characterized, along with partial sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene.
Scientific, Environmental, and Economic Impact:
This project is designed to significantly contribute to the scientific community by providing new insights into the microbiological biodiversity of the Marchica Lagoon. It also aims to exploit the biotechnological potential of this marine environment as a source of novel, potentially valuable molecules, especially for applications related to human health. Moreover, the project is not just about scientific discovery. It aims to generate significant socio-economic benefits, adding value through enhancing the efficiency of academic research and aligning it with environmental, economic, and social concerns. This alignment ensures that our work will have a positive impact beyond the scientific realm.