SAXOmics · Astaxanthin Metabolism in Salmon: A Cutting-Edge Multi-Omics Exploration

Astaxanthin (Ax) is crucial for achieving the pink-red hue in farmed Atlantic salmon, a key quality factor at sale. Since salmon cannot produce Ax naturally, it is added to their feed. Beyond pigmentation, Ax's antioxidant properties may boost salmon growth and health. However, farming challenges have led to a decline in muscle Ax levels, possibly due to rapid growth, welfare challenges, and low retention rates. Despite Ax's high cost and its importance in fish feed, retention in salmon remains low, under 12%. Improving Ax retention and pigmentation is a key challenge in salmon aquaculture, essential for the industry’s growth and salmon health. The SAXOmics project aims to enhance understanding of Ax metabolism, focusing on its absorption, transport, and retention, to improve Ax retention, feed and fish quality, and address pigmentation challenges. Enhancing Ax absorption and retention is crucial, as dietary lipids and other factors promote Ax retention, though the exact molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Recent research suggests that gut microbiota affect lipid metabolism, pointing to a possible role in the Ax mechanism. By employing a groundbreaking interdisciplinary approach that integrates multi-omics technologies and advanced bioinformatics tools, this project will delve into the molecular mechanisms of Ax metabolism and develop innovative feed formulations to optimize Ax absorption, transport, and retention. The project will include enterocyte and muscle cell culture and salmon pigmentation trials, complemented by thorough training in omics technology, animal ethics, experimental design, and scientific communication. Joint efforts with Nord University, NTNU, and BioMar will support practical applications and commercialization of the findings. By month 30, I will have advanced expertise in salmon rearing and nutrition, practical omics skills, and a strong network, positioning me as a competitive candidate capable of driving innovation in my field.