Identification of Blood–Brain Barrier-Permeable Cyclolinopeptides from Irish Flaxseed By-Products as Natural Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors for the Modulation of Neuroinflammation (FLAX-CYCLE)

The increasing demand for sustainable, evidence-based nutraceuticals has created opportunities to valorise flaxseed processing by-products as sources of health-promoting bioactive compounds. FLAX CYCLE aims to investigate cyclolinopeptides (CLPs), a unique class of cyclic peptides naturally present in flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum), recovered from Irish flaxseed cultivars and flaxseed press-cake generated during oil production. These peptides possess favourable biochemical properties, including high structural stability, hydrophobicity and resistance to enzymatic degradation, making them promising candidates for functional food and neuroprotective applications.
The project will collect and characterise flaxseed biomass from Irish growers and processors, including cultivars adapted to Irish conditions. Cyclolinopeptides will be extracted, identified and quantified using advanced LC-MS/MS-based peptidomics to establish cultivar-specific peptide profiles and support valorisation of flax processing residues. Purified cyclolinopeptides will be evaluated for acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity using biochemical and SH-SY5Y neuronal cell assays, while blood–brain barrier permeability will be assessed using hCMEC/D3 human endothelial cell monolayers. Additional studies will examine cytotoxicity, mutagenicity, allergenicity and anti inflammatory potential to establish the safety and functionality of lead compounds.
Expected outcomes include identification of BBB-permeable cyclolinopeptides with neuroprotective potential, development of sustainable value-added applications for flax by-products, and generation of new knowledge supporting circular bioeconomy and cognitive health innovation in Ireland.

2.1 Hons BSc in food science, nutraceuticals, biotechnology, biochemistry, pharmaceutical healthcare or other relevant subjects

 Funding Agency: TU Dublin ARISE

Student Stipend per annum

€ 25,000

 Materials & Travel Budget per annum

€ 3,000

 Fees covered by the funding per annum

€5,500

Duration of Funding

24 months

Application Closing Date: 29^th October 2026

If you are interested in submitting an application for this project, please complete an Expression of Interest.

 https://forms.office.com/e/0hCcrv2Gkp