Plant Biomolecules: Diversity and Applications

Learn about the major families of plant molecules and their properties, the biosynthesis pathways of these molecules, and the mechanisms regulating biosynthesis in plants and microorganisms. In this module, the major families of molecules derived from secondary plant metabolism (terpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins) are studied through their biosynthesis in plants and the differentiation of structures or groups of specialized cells. Based on this knowledge, biotechnological approaches for metabolic engineering are presented. The role of these molecules in plant life is discussed, as well as their properties used by industry as dyes, flavorings, perfumes, medicines, and biofuels. The use of natural polymers for the manufacture of industrial materials is addressed (paper pulp, rubber, plastics) and the production chains are described. Understanding the major families of plant molecules and their properties, the biosynthesis pathways of these molecules, and the mechanisms regulating these biosyntheses in plants remains a major challenge for the development of biorefineries in Europe.                                              

Keywords: secondary metabolism, metabolic engineering, biomolecule valorization, cellular and metabolic differentiation, regulation of secondary metabolism.

Additional information:

Visits to two analytical platforms are planned at the Montpellier hub (each lasting 1.5 hours).

- Raise awareness of the field of biomolecule valorization around the world. Open up to biotechnologies (green and white) and metabolic engineering. Integration within the framework of ecological and economic transition. 

- Understand the diversity of molecules in living organisms, particularly plants, and know how to place them in a metabolic context.

- Understand the major properties of biomolecules, their groupings, their conformation, and their degree of polymerization.

- Address the principles of extraction and analysis based on their properties and sizes

- Utilization of biomolecules in numerous fields, from agri-food to healthcare

Cell biology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry