Piran (Slovenia), March 28, 2025. National 2B-BLUE Part II: Blue Biotechnology value chains in Slovenia
Treatment of leukaemia, a blood disease, took a step forward in 1951 when researchers isolated the first marine-derived anticancer agent, arabinosyl cytosine*. This showed the potential of substances originating in the oceans to treat some of the 30,000 illnesses that afflict humanity. The biodiversity of marine microorganisms and the plasticity of their metabolism make them a potential arsenal of new compounds. However, there is still much to be discover. The establishment of networks of experts and business such as the one sponsored by 2B-BLUE should contribute to the equitable exploitation of marine resources.
On March 28th the National Institute of Biology (NIB) organised a meeting that brought together local organisations involved in the cultivation of marine microorganisms and their cosmeceutical (cosmetics with additional health benefits) applications – AlKoSol. They discussed synergies and collaborations, promoting Blue Biotechnology and sustainability. This work will help improve the upcoming launch of pilot projects and partnerships in Slovenia.
For more information check: AlKoSol.
*Karthikeyan et al. (2022) in Journal of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology.
