Advances in biological sciences combined with the development of computing, data processing and artificial intelligence are fuelling a new wave of technological innovation that will influence many sectors, including aquaculture. To accelerate this development, in 2020 Skretting launched The Bubble, a new research facility forming an integral part of Skretting Aquaculture Research Centre (ARC).
As part of the expansion, the new facility will enable the team of scientists at Skretting ARC to better understand the complexity of physiological interactions of aquaculture species using many technologies mirrored in the human health sector, including the same techniques that are used to detect breast cancer and pathogens like COVID-19.
We have such a unique knowledge pool here in The Bubble, combined with the huge advantage that we can share knowledge and compare interactions daily.
“This facility will help us understand mechanisms behind effects, essentially finding out the ‘why’,” said Alex Obach, Skretting R&D Director. “We are not just observing changes, but we are understanding them to a greater extent than ever before. Why do some fish grow better? Why are some more resistant to challenges? When we understand the why, we can go further in our innovation. We are extremely excited about the opportunities these technologies offer Skretting and the aquaculture industry.”
Delphine Crappe, an expert in transcriptomics, biochemistry and cell culture leads the specialised team of scientists at The Bubble. “We have such a unique knowledge pool here in The Bubble, combined with the huge advantage that we can share knowledge and compare interactions daily,” says Delphine. “The intention is to keep growing and continuously evolve to adapt to the new challenges and techniques available in the market.”
Microarray, qPCR, OMICs, cell culture, rapid analytics and quantitative histology are just some of the methods which are allowing researchers to dig much deeper into the fundamental causes of health challenges and risks for aquatic animals. Some of those techniques, like cell culture, will enable the team to work in an even more sustainable manner.
