Plant Biomolecules: Diversity and Applications

Learn about the major families of plant molecules and their properties, the biosynthetic pathways of these molecules, and the mechanisms regulating these biosyntheses in plants and microorganisms. In this module, the major families of molecules resulting from secondary plant metabolism (terpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins) are studied through their biosynthesis in the plant and the differentiation of specialized cell structures or groups. Based on this knowledge, biotechnological approaches for metabolic engineering are presented. The role of these molecules in plant life is discussed, as are their properties for industrial use as colorants, aromas, perfumes, medicines and biofuels. The use of natural polymers in the manufacture of industrial materials (paper pulp, rubber, plastics) is discussed, and production channels are described. Knowledge of the major families of plant molecules and their properties, the biosynthesis pathways of these molecules, and the mechanisms regulating these biosyntheses in the plant remains a major challenge for the development of biorefining in Europe.                                              

Key words: secondary metabolism, metabolic engineering, valorization of biomolecules, cellular and metabolic differentiation, regulation of secondary metabolism.

Additional information :

Visits to 2 analytical platforms are planned at the Montpellier site (duration 1h30 each).

- Raising awareness of biomolecule valorization worldwide. Opening up to biotechnologies (green and white) and metabolic engineering. Integration into the framework of ecological and economic transition. 

- Understand the diversity of molecules in living organisms, particularly plants, and be able to place them in a metabolic context

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

- Principles of extraction and analysis based on properties and sizes

- Adding value to biomolecules in a wide range of fields, from agri-food to healthcare

Cell biology, biochemistry, analytical chemistry