A Joint Research Project With Université Laval Aims to Enable Aplantex to Increase Its Production of High-Value Molecules

MONTREAL--(BUSINESS WIRE)--“This research project, benefiting from a budget of $2.2 million, one of six jointly supported by Genome Canada and Génome Québec, aims to set up a high-throughput platform integrating genetic transformation, multi-omics analyses, and phenotype detection through hyperspectral imaging, using artificial intelligence, allowing for accelerated selection of clonal plant lines,” says Dr. Davoud Torkamaneh, assistant professor in the Department of Plant Science at the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences of Université Laval. “The project will also enable the training of highly qualified personnel and the sharing of cutting-edge technical knowledge between academia and industry, thereby contributing to the growth of Canadian biotechnology,” continues Mr. Torkamaneh.

In close collaboration with Université Laval, Aplantex's scientific team aims to achieve accelerated production of plant clonal lines used in the production of bioactive phytochemical ingredients, thereby significantly increasing the production of a wide range of molecules in high demand by the cosmetic, natural health, agri-food, and biopharmaceutical industries.

"We are privileged to have been able to rely, since our very beginnings, on the expertise of Prof. Torkamaneh and his experienced team. Their rigour and competence have allowed us to successfully cross several key milestones over the past few years, and thanks to this new collaboration, we anticipate being able to quickly expand our range of high-value-added ingredients," says Mr. Mourad Sabri, Ph.D., Scientific Director of Aplantex.

"The global market for bioactive phytochemical compounds is experiencing rapid growth, particularly for flavonoids, estimated at 1.2 billion dollars, with a CAGR of 11%, driven by demand for sustainable ingredients in the cosmetics, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical sectors. Canada relies heavily on imported active ingredients (60% from Asia), highlighting the need to develop local production. The project gives Aplantex a competitive advantage in the bioactive ingredients market, stimulates economic growth, and positions Canada as a leader in environmentally friendly green biotechnology," emphasizes Mr. Patrick Charest, B. Sc., Eng., mMBA, CEO of Aplantex.