PD Dr. Ines Krohn

The Krohn lab's main aspects of research

I. New enzymes/biomolecules of aquatic and marine resources for biotechnology

Complex multispecies biofilms are often undesirable growths on surfaces and pose challenges in both clinical and industrial settings. Biofilm analysis and reliable diagnostics are often very difficult and time-consuming in both industry and clinical environments. Therefore, we have established extensive expertise in terms of detection and analysis. We analyze metagenomes of complex biofilms to gain deep insights into the functioning of these consortia. We utilize a wide range of omics analyses. EPS (extracellular polymeric substance) analysis and imaging techniques, such as electron microscopy, are also integral parts of our portfolio.

II. Molecular mechanisms of microalgae-bacteria interaction and infection (synthetic microbiology and microbial consortia)

In this context, we are actively working on elucidating processes that play a role in bacterial and interspecies communication and interaction. Our primary interest lies in understanding how microorganisms communicate and interact with each other. We are searching for new signaling molecules and exploring ways to control growth and production deliberately. To achieve this, we work with mixed consortia at the level of entire populations as well as in single-cell analysis. During these investigations, we also reconstruct multispecies consortia, attempting to mimic natural conditions in technological processes and natural environments. This approach provides us with deep insights into 3D structures, omics, and mutual host and host-microbiome interactions.

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FUNDUS Microalgae Collection MZCH
Microalgae and Zygnematophyceae Collection Hamburg (MZCH)
Ines Krohn Lab

I. MultiOmics analysis to provide new biocatalysts and biomolecules

In another central research area, we use metagenomics to provide new biocatalysts and other valuable biomolecules for biotechnological applications. A key aspect of our research is harnessing the potential of uncultivated organisms or their metagenomes for biotechnology. Today, it is known that 99 % of all microorganisms are not or are only difficult to cultivate. We aim to make this almost limitless potential of new enzymes and molecules usable. Regarding the identification and provision of biocatalysts, we have focused on the isolation of biofilm-inhibiting and structural component-degrading enzymes (e.g., hydrolases, chelatases, endonucleases, deaminases)

I. Combined bioinformatics and synthesis-based technology

Currently, we are establishing a combined bioinformatics and synthesis-based technology platform. This will enable us to quickly identify and analyze new biocatalysts from metagenomes, with a focus on both fundamental and applied research.

These are applied in diverse fields such as cosmetics, wastewater treatments, agricultural sciences, and One Health strategies - for example, by exploring microalgae and bacteria as sustainable, multifunctional tools for improving fish health and managing disease in aquaculture. By leveraging the metabolic and genetic diversity of selected microalgal species, the lab identifies bioactive compounds with antimicrobial, antioxidative, and quorum-quenching properties. Through metagenomic analyses, key functional enzymes - such as proteases, hydrolases, and magnesium chelatases - are characterized to support the development of microalgae-based feed additives and water treatments that enhance fish immunity and reduce pathogen pressure.

II. Mutual cooperation and cellular signal transduction of microalgae and their microbiome

Based on our research, which provides detailed insights into the mutual cooperation and cellular signal transduction of microalgae and their microbiome, we have established, for example, an artificial plant-bacteria system involving the microalga Micrasterias radians MZCH 672 and various bacterial isolates (e.g., Dyadobacter sp., Burkholderia sp., Variovorax sp., Porphyrobacter sp.).

II. Mutagenesis-based experiments uncover multi-species interactions

Our mutagenesis-based experiments and transcriptome analyses suggest that Dyadobacter plays a key role in the growth and fitness of algae within this multispecies interaction and is highly adapted to life in the phycosphere.

These methods and systems can be transferred to other applied research contexts - particularly in plant-based and food-related systems. For example, we conduct experiments investigating the influence of microalgae-bacteria consortia on seed germination, early plant development, using Valerianella locusta (lamb’s lettuce) as a model, and for controlling plant pathogens, particularly the inhibition of biofilm formation and pathogen growth. These studies aim to reveal the potential of microbial consortia to enhance crop resilience and seedling vigor. These efforts contribute to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly approaches in agriculture, aligning with the principles of “One Health” and circular bioeconomy.