Microbial systems and Protein engineering

The growth and diversification of the research lines of the "Biotechnology for lignocellulosic biomass" group has led to the creation of this new group, structured around two main line. Our common goal is focused on the bioconversion of natural or artificial waste by enzymes or whole microbial cells. Drs. Mª Jesús Martínez and Alicia Prieto lead studies on hydrolytic enzymes involved in the degradation and transformation of carbohydrates and lipids of the plant cell wall. On the other hand, Dr. Jorge Barriuso has initiated a promising research line centered on the use of fungi, bacteria, or microbial consortia, exploring the formation of catalytic biofilms and the cooperation between species mediated by quorum sensing mechanisms. From the pillars of basic knowledge, our team wants to contribute to the establishment of clean bioprocesses based on the use of secondary raw materials (e.g., agro-industrial and plastic waste) for the sustainable development of society.