Euglena International Network (EIN): Driving euglenoid biotechnology for the benefit of a challenged world

Thankgod Echezona Ebenezer, Ross S. Low, Ellis Charles O'Neill, Ishuo Huang, Antonio DeSimone, Scott C. Farrow, Robert A. Field, Michael L. Ginger, Sergio Adrián Guerrero, Michael Hammond, Vladimír Hampl, Geoff Horst, Takahiro Ishikawa, Anna Karnkowska, Eric W. Linton, Peter Myler, Masami Nakazawa, Pierre Cardol, Rosina Sánchez-Thomas, Barry J. SavilleMahfuzur R. Shah, Alastair G. B. Simpson, Aakash Sur, Kengo Suzuki, Kevin M. Tyler, Paul V. Zimba, Neil Hall, Mark C. Field

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Euglenoids (Euglenida) are unicellular flagellates possessing exceptionally wide geographical and ecological distribution. Euglenoids combine a biotechnological potential with a unique position in the eukaryotic tree of life. In large part these microbes owe this success to diverse genetics including secondary endosymbiosis and likely additional sources of genes. Multiple euglenoid species have translational applications and show great promise in production of biofuels, nutraceuticals, bioremediation, cancer treatments and more exotically as robotics design simulators. An absence of reference genomes currently limits these applications, including development of efficient tools for identification of critical factors in regulation, growth or optimization of metabolic pathways. The Euglena International Network (EIN) seeks to provide a forum to overcome these challenges. EIN has agreed specific goals, mobilized scientists, established a clear roadmap (Grand Challenges), connected academic and industry stakeholders and is currently formulating policy and partnership principles to propel these efforts in a coordinated and efficient manner.
Original languageEnglish
Article numberbio059561
JournalBiology Open
Volume11
Issue number11
Early online date22 Nov 2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Nov 2022

Keywords

  • Biofuels
  • Bioremediation
  • Biotechnology
  • Euglena
  • Food supplements
  • Networks

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