Aspidia

ASPIDIA srl is an innovative biotech startup committed to the design, management, and development of scientific research projects regarding (i) the bioremediation of pollutants through the use of recombinant enzymes and (ii) the use of probiotics as vectors for the presentation of antibodies and/or antigens on mucosal surfaces. ASPIDIA offers chemical industries a service for research, optimization and production of enzymes for industrial processes, including bioremediation. Bioremediation, which involves the use of a biological agent to degrade contaminants, is an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach that can destroy a pollutant or convert harmful contaminants into harmless substances. It could effectively and economically combat contamination by various pollutants, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) in environmental matrices. Because the ability of biological agents to degrade PFASs is still poorly studied, we are conducting research to find the most appropriate enzyme(s) and optimize them for specific needs. ASPIDIA, in collaboration with key partners, uses a range of advanced methodologies, including bioinformatics analysis and in silico modeling, combined with advanced microbiological techniques for custom optimization of novel bioremediation and transformation processes for specific industrial needs. By identifying enzymes tailored to specific industrial processes, a reduction in operating costs and the implementation of sustainable, green infrastructure at limited fixed costs can be achieved. In addition, ASPIDIA, together with a key partner, is conducting scientific research on the use of probiotics as vectors for antigen presentation on mucosal surfaces. This research is intended to be a proof-of-principle on a possible new vaccine against COVID-19, but once conditions are established and optimized, the results of the research could allow the same technology to be used for other antigens and even monoclonal antibodies.