Dr Ivana Čabarkapa is a senior research associate at the Institute of Food Technology, University of Novi Sad (Serbia). She was awarded a STSM grant titled “Antioxidant and antibacterial potential of Ulva spp. from the Adriatic Sea” to visit the Institute of Marine Biology, Montenegro.
The main objective of the research was to determine the antioxidant and antibacterial potential of Ulva spp. The antioxidative and antimicrobial potentials of Ulva powder (ULP) when dissolved in water and Ulva extract (UEF) were investigated. The evaluation of antioxidant potential involved determining the total phenolics, total carotenoids, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b content. Additionally, the antibacterial activity of both ULP and UEF was examined against four pathogenic bacteria using in vitro disc diffusion and broth microdilution methods.
This Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) provided dr Čabarkapa a distinctive chance to enhance her foundational understanding of marine biodiversity, utilization of marine resources, and exchange of practical and theoretical knowledge. Moreover, the exchange of insights and ideas with scientists from the host institution presented a valuable occasion to enhance collaboration with researchers specializing in complementary fields such as marine biology and bioactive compounds. In summary, the visit to the Institute of Marine Biology during this STSM played a crucial role in promoting collaboration between the two institutions, ultimately reinforcing the broader impact of the COST action. Outputs from the STSM will provide valuable research data related to the Cost Action in promoting and developing Ulva-based nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products.
