Driving innovation in marine biotechnology

BLUES unlocks the potential of marine invertebrates, developing novel cultivation systems for sustainable production of unique bioactive compounds. Our breakthroughs in continuous cell lines pave the way for eco-friendly industrial bioprocesses, reducing reliance on wild harvesting and fostering a circular economy in the Blue Bioeconomy.

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Why BLUES

BLUES is pivotal for advancing science, fostering sustainability, and driving green bioprocessing and circular economies by exploring marine invertebrates and innovating biotechnological solutions

  • Unlocking Marine Biodiversity

    BLUES explores marine invertebrates, rich in unique compounds, advancing knowledge for sustainable use.

  • Bioprocess Development for Increased Yields

    BLUES leverages consortium expertise to develop continuous cell lines for diverse phyla, including marine sponges, corals, sea cucumbers, and ascidians, promoting sustainable access to marine bioactive compounds while enhancing product yields.

  • Use of omics technologies for process understanding

    BLUES employs advanced technologies to unravel mechanisms, paving the way for a standardized cell chassis for bioactive compound production.

  • Support to green industrial bioprocessing

    BLUES contributes to the blue economy by establishing in vitro processes, providing controlled access to marine compounds without environmental harm, and developing novel bioprocesses for sustainable products.

Species we work with

Among the key species studied are sponges (Porifera), corals (Cnidaria), sea cucumbers (Echinodermata), and ascidians (Chordata). Each of these organisms contributes to the rich tapestry of marine biodiversity and holds promise for sustainable biotechnological advancements.

Who We Are

The BLUES project brings together a dynamic consortium comprising nine partners, each contributing unique expertise and resources to advance marine biotechnology.

Meet the people
behind BLUES

Latest news and events

Meet the BLUES researchers: Serena Federico
Serena Federico is one of our colleagues working on the development and optimisation of sponge cell culture systems. 
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We joined an Invertebrate Symbiosis Workshop at the University of Miami
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Our colleague, Shirley Pomponi, took part in the "Cell Culture in Symbiotic Invertebrates" on 27-28 May 2026 at the University of Miami in the US
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Strengthening BLUES through Europe Biobank Week Insights
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We took part in the Europe Biobank Week in Prague (19-22 May), alongside more than 700 delegates from 49 countries!
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Meet the BLUES researchers: Prof. Buki Rinkevich
Prof. Rinkevich leads our work on cell lines development for the species of marine invertebrates we chose to focus on. 
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