MOC – MultiOmics Centre for Food and Health


Funded by: FESR-EFRE Cohesion Italy 21-27 Alto Adige Südtirol, Co-funded by the European Union

Project duration: 01.2025 – 12.2027

Budget: € 1.385.511,02

Purpose of the Project:

The MOC – MultiOmics Centre for Food and Health integrates the most advanced analysis technologies from a range of scientific fields. This interdisciplinary research centre uses cutting-edge multiomic technologies, such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, to study biological processes from a molecular viewpoint, with applications in agriculture, food and production and health research.

MOC – MultiOmics Centre for Food and Health is a project for long-term co-operation between Centro di Sperimentazione Laimburg and Eurac Research, founded to support businesses, research bodies and institutions, both in South Tyrol and outside the region, in the optimised collection and analysis of large quantities of data (Big Data) from omic environments..

Multiomics refers to the combination of different methods for studying DNA, proteins and metabolites. While individual analysis techniques often only provide a partial view of biological processes, multiomic approaches provide an overall, integrated picture of biological systems.
Using this innovative approach, it is possible to:

  • Analyse and identify some plant diseases early, developing effective management strategies.
  • Improve food quality and identify new bioactive compounds.
  • Assess health risks for human beings, animals, and plants.
  • Achieve better understanding of the consequences of the climate crisis on ecosystems.

Methodology:

  1. Creation of research infrastructure: purchase of vanguard testing instruments and acquisition of computing capacities for big data collection and processing
  2. Development of standardised methods of analysis: implementation of computer and laboratory networks to guarantee workflows and results that can be reproduced
  3. Collaboration with business and research bodies: integration of scientific and economic stakeholders into the research process
  4. Performance of multiomic studies: practical application of technologies to research on plants, on food, and to provide answers to questions in the healthcare sector
  5. Transfer and use of knowledge: circulation of the results and scientific knowledge acquired by the company to politicians and society
  6. Offer of services: access to advanced laboratory equipment, availability of innovative methods, and the transfer of technical and scientific knowhow to third parties

Expected results:

The MOC – MultiOmics Centre for Food and Health will be developed as a centre of reference for multiomic analysis in South Tyrol, with the target of boosting research, economics and society over the long term..

  • For scientific research: development of new analytical methods, data-based models, and interdisciplinary research approaches.
  • For agriculture and food production: improved plant health and optimised testing of food and agricultural products
  • For the healthcare sector: identification of biomarkets, development of customised nutrition concepts, and support for medical research
  • For businesses and the economy: access to the most advanced research, promotion of innovation and sustainable optimisation of production processes

The MOC – MultiOmics Centre for Food and Health will become a central platform for research, innovation, and the transfer of technology, strengthening South Tyrol as a scientific and economic hub.


Lead Partner – Laimburg Research Centre:

Coordinator:

Katrin Janik, responsabile del settore Biologia Molecolare e Microbiologia del Centro di Sperimentazione Laimburg, katrin.janik@laimburg.it

Partner:

Contact person:

Christian Fuchsberger, Christian.Fuchsberger@eurac.edu