Prak - project
Project Info
- Title: Analysis of business potential and commercialization strategy for unique Phytocomplex produced by CCS technology
- Registration Number: PRAK-25-47
- Project Provider: Programme for Application Development and Commercialization of the CAS (PRAK), coordinated by the CAS Technology Transfer Centre (CETAV)
- Years: 2026
- Total Grant (CZK): 500 000
Project Team
- José Carlos Cheel Horna – Project Leader
- Richard Lhotský
- Daniela Bárcenas-Pérez
Project Description
This project focuses on the protection, management, and commercialization of two innovative production processes developed at the Algatech Centre (Institute of Microbiology, Czech Academy of Sciences). These processes produce Phytocomplexes, a new class of multicomponent bioactive ingredients obtained using advanced Countercurrent Separation (CCS) technologies such as Centrifugal Partition Chromatography (CPC) and Countercurrent Chromatography (CCC). The project targets two CCS-based processes that generate a microalgae-derived Phytocomplex and a yeast-derived Phytocomplex, both currently at Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL 7). These technologies were developed in collaboration with Aveflor a.s. and Trade Wind Biotech Co., Ltd. within the TAČR Sigma DC2 and TAČR Delta2 programs. The resulting Phytocomplexes have strong potential as natural functional ingredients for applications in cosmetics and dermocosmetics, nutraceuticals, foods and beverages, as well as specialized feed and aquaculture nutrition. Building on Algatech’s previous success in developing and patenting a CCS-based process for astaxanthin monoester Phytocomplex production (patent CZ 308677 B6), this project aims to strengthen intellectual property protection and prepare these technologies for industrial adoption and commercialization.