Nakdonggang National Institute of Biological Resources

Development and application of microbial materials to reduce pollution of hazardous chemicals

We conduct research and development of environmental purification technology after exploring effective microorganisms that purify the environment to safely restore the polluted environment exposed to hazardous chemicals. To date, we have found a total of 18 microorganisms including novel strains that remove the toxicities of phthalate (an endocrine-disrupting chemical) and arsenic (a heavy metal). Moreover, for technology development, we developed a complex formulation using the microbial strains oxidizing arsenic that is highly effective in reducing arsenic toxicity.

Development of useful microbial materials for application in a local bioindustry

We have explored freshwater fungi that suppress the growth of anthracnose causing damage to persimmon cultivation, which is the present issue in Sangju. Moreover, 10 useful microorganisms were selected to reduce the environmental stresses (salt stress) due to climate change. Furthermore, we completed the toxicity tests to select biomaterials controlling edible insect diseases. We transferred the technologies to social enterprises along with patent applications for useful microbial materials.

Sangju is the largest city with livestock industry in the North Gyeongsang Province. The city has faced odor problems due to livestock manure in farms, and its prevention measures are a prerequisite for sustainable livestock industry. Therefore, we aim to explore microorganisms that can reduce odors in order to improve the quality of life of residents suffering from these odors.

Exploring the availability of natural products as well as research and development of materials to be industrialized

Based on the basic physiological activity evaluation of natural extracts from freshwater organisms, as well as studies on the application of these extracts through effective component separation and analysis, we contribute to the creation of infinite uses of freshwater bioresources. Moreover, we conduct joint research with renowned research institutes (e.g., Korea Pasteur Research Institute) to develop food and medical components using natural products.

Through in-depth research on the utilization of natural products, we secure the intellectual property rights for employing various biomaterials, and continuously pursue technology transfers to bioindustries, providing a pathway for excellent research results to promote industrialization.

After being designated as the Inspection Agency of Protozoa in November 2017, we conduct protozoal inspections in raw water supply from water treatment plants, thereby contributing to safe drinking water.

Search for useful microorganisms for livestock animal feed additives, and its industrialization research

Microalgae have high industrial values as they produce useful unsaturated fatty acids such as omega 3 and omega 6 that cannot be synthesized by animals, including humans. We developed strains that have three times more unsaturated fat contents of parachlorella with excellent growth potential.

We retain a group of useful microorganisms that have basic properties of probiotics such as acid resistance, bile resistance, and antibiotics, after separating the microorganisms from diverse environments (freshwater, food, feed, etc.). In particular, we conduct in-depth studies by using the omics technique to develop probiotics for livestock animal feed additives. We focus on a functional study based on genome analysis as well as a control capability study of the intestinal microbiome of livestock animals. We publish these studies in journals and apply for their patents, as we would like to contribute to relevant industries through our scientific approaches and security of meaningful data.

Operation and management of freshwater biological resource bank

For the sustainable use of efficient freshwater biological resources, we secure, preserve, sell, and deposit various freshwater biological materials.

We presently secure and preserve 1252 algae, 4454 bacterium, 1105 fungi, and 1042 extracts. Moreover, we offer retail/sales services via the freshwater bioresources homepage (https://fbcc.nnibr.re.kr)to allow researchers from the industry and universities to easily assess the samples.

Industrialization support for freshwater biological resources

We have established an industrial linkage network and operate it to utilize the biological resources and contribute to the vitalization of local economies by creating high added values in the local bioindustry.

Based on the latest technical skills and technology support system in the field of bioresource utilization, we provide essential techniques customized to specific demands, such as technology consulting services, analysis supports, and technology transfer consulting services, as requested by the bioindustries.