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Affordable Pharmaceuticals
We aim to unlock new bioactive compounds while enabling sustainable and economically viable production pathways. Central to this effort is the vast biosynthetic potential of fungi and plants, whose secondary metabolites represent a rich source of medically relevant molecules. By integrating genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolite analysis, we identify novel compounds and unravel the regulatory networks that govern their formation. In parallel, we investigate structure–function relationships of enzymes to better understand and optimize biocatalytic processes.
At the same time, we develop innovative biotechnological processes that support scalable and resource-efficient manufacturing. This includes data-driven strategies for recombinant protein processing as well as the valorization of biological side streams into high-value products. By combining molecular biology, process engineering, and digital technologies, our work establishes new approaches to make pharmaceutical production more efficient, sustainable, and accessible.
Current Topics
| Contact Person | Christian Zimmermann (E166-05-1) |
|---|---|
| Abstract | Fungi possess a remarkable biosynthetic capacity, producing diverse secondary metabolites with applications in medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. We investigate the regulatory networks and biosynthetic gene clusters that govern metabolite formation in selected fungal species. By integrating genomics, transcriptomics, and metabolite profiling, we aim to identify new bioactive compounds and understand how environmental conditions influence their production. The long-term goal is to harness the natural potential of fungi for the discovery and sustainable production of valuable pharmaceuticals and industrial agents. |
| Keywords | Secondary Metabolites, Gene regulation, Novel Isolates |
| Guiding Principles | Affordable pharmaceuticals |
| Funding | FWF, aws |
| Cooperation Partners |
| Contact Person | Heidi Halbwirth (E166-06-2) |
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| Abstract | This project focuses on transforming biological residues into valuable bioactive ingredients and specialty products. It aims to unlock the potential of agricultural, horticultural, and forestry side streams as sustainable sources of high-value compounds. A key emphasis is on innovative, selective extraction technologies that yield pure high-end products. Together with the development of analytical methods for identification and quantification, the project enables efficient valorization of side streams and supports resource conservation and circular, sustainable use of natural raw materials. |
| Keywords | Biorefinery, Innovative Extraction Methods, Natural Raw Materials, Secondary Metabolites |
| Guiding Principles | Carbon-based products from sustainable materials Affordable pharmaceuticals |
| Funding | |
| Cooperation Partners |
| Contact Person | Oliver Spadiut (E166-04-2) |
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| Abstract | Recombinant protein production often leads to the formation of inclusion bodies—insoluble protein aggregates that are typically seen as waste. This project redefines them as valuable intermediates. We develop smart, automated strategies for solubilization, refolding, and purification, integrating advanced sensors and data analytics under the Industry 4.0 paradigm. By optimizing process control, we aim to reduce resource consumption and improve the economic viability of recombinant protein production. The research supports more sustainable, data-driven bioprocessing for biopharmaceutical applications. |
| Keywords | |
| Guiding Principles | Affordable pharmaceuticals |
| Funding | |
| Cooperation Partners |
| Contact Person | Heidi Halbwirth (E166-06-2) |
|---|---|
| Abstract | Plants produce an enormous diversity of secondary metabolites with roles in defense, signaling, and adaptation. This project investigates how these compounds are synthesized and regulated at the genetic and biochemical levels. By combining metabolite profiling, transcriptomics, and functional genomics, we aim to identify key enzymes and regulatory mechanisms. The insights gained contribute to understanding plant resilience and to developing new strategies for producing natural products with pharmaceutical and industrial relevance. |
| Keywords | Secondary Metabolites, Renewable Raw Materials, Flavonoid Biosynthesis, Polyphenols |
| Guiding Principles | Carbon-based products from sustainable materials Affordable pharmaceuticals |
| Funding | |
| Cooperation Partners |
| Contact Person | Heidi Halbwirth (E166-06-2) |
|---|---|
| Abstract | Understanding how molecular structure determines biological function is central to biotechnology. This project examines enzymes, transport proteins, and other biomolecules to uncover how structural variations influence their catalytic or binding properties. Using protein engineering, spectroscopy, and computational modeling, we explore mechanisms that govern stability, specificity, and activity. The findings support the rational design of improved biocatalysts and biomaterials, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable biotechnological applications. |
| Keywords | Enzyme Characterization, Structure-Function Relationship, Protein Modelling |
| Guiding Principles | Carbon-based products from sustainable materials Affordable pharmaceuticals |
| Funding | |
| Cooperation Partners |