Team Vsycle from the University of Gent in Belgium consists of Jill Deygers, Ella Meeusen, Shauny Van Hoye and Margot Verhille.
Their project is about developing new antifreeze proteins (AFPs) to protect fruit blossoms against spring frost. AFPs will keep water in a liquid state well below 0°C by binding small ice crystals and inhibiting further ice crystal growth. Antifreeze proteins can be sprayed on plants to protect them against frost. In doing so apples, pears, cherries, grapes, etc. that are normally lost due to frost damage, can be saved. The AFP designed by the team is non-toxic and biodegradable.
