XTREAM is a European Union-funded research project focused on unlocking the biotechnology potential of aquatic extremophiles: microorganisms adapted to extreme environments. These organisms can possess distinctive regulatory mechanisms and resilient biological adaptations that may support new solutions in health, industry, agriculture, and food production. XTREAM addresses the time, cost, and environmental impact of conventional approaches to sampling extreme environments and identifying promising organisms.

The project is developing a targeted, more efficient and sustainable method for biodiscovery by combining computational modelling, microfluidics, and metabolic engineering. Its work aims to make the exploration and analysis of extremophiles faster and more practical for real-world applications. Potential areas of application include discovering drugs and antimicrobial compounds, developing natural products for health and wellness, and identifying bioactive molecules for therapies and diagnostics. XTREAM also explores robust enzymes and bioprocesses for greener industrial production, resilient crops, and more efficient food production. Bringing together expertise from across Europe, the project seeks to support innovation and contribute to a biobased economy.