Team ABIE - Algal Biology and Interactions with the Environnement

The ABIE team explores how marine macroalgae and their microbiota adapt to their environments, from molecular mechanisms to ecological outcomes. Its research activities are built around four axes.

1. Algal responses to environmental stress
 We investigate how brown and red macroalgae sense and respond to biotic and abiotic challenges. Our work on kelp immunity has revealed conserved defence pathways, such as oxylipin and halogen metabolism, as well as species-specific responses to endophytes and grazers. In parallel, we study adaptation to abiotic stressors such as salinity, temperature, and heavy metals.

2. Evolution and metabolism in algal holobionts
 We dissect the evolution and function of key metabolic pathways in algae and their bacterial partners, focusing on halogen metabolism and defence-related enzymes such as vanadium haloperoxidases. Combining biochemistry, structural biology, and metabolic network reconstruction, we integrate genomic and metabolomic data to better understand how algal holobionts produce and exchange bioactive compounds.

3. Algal–bacterial interactions and holobiont function
 We examine how microbial partners influence algal growth, defence, and acclimation. Using simplified laboratory holobionts and modelling approaches, we have identified bacteria that promote algal fitness through metabolic complementarity. Integrative studies of transcriptomics and metabolomics further reveal how specific microbiota shape algal stress responses and 4. 

4. Translating knowledge into sustainable algoculture

We aim to apply the insights gained from our research on algal stress responses, metabolism, and symbioses to improve cultivation practices. In collaboration with local industry partners, we explore how selecting naturally resilient strains, optimizing reproduction and culture conditions, and managing microbiomes can enhance algal growth, yield, and resistance to environmental stressors.