Wilfried Denagbe, a former PhD student at the Qualisud laboratory, has just successfully completed his PhD at the University of Guyana. Each year, the university celebrates the achievements of several doctoral graduates, highlighting their passionate commitment to research and their dedication to contributing to the development of research through innovative and rewarding scientific studies. Wilfried, a recent graduate, shares his recently acquired experience.
Can you sum up the essence of your thesis in a few sentences?
My thesis explored the use of the Acrocomia aculeata palm, known as 'Moucaya' in French Guiana. Although it is little used in French Guiana, Brazil uses it extensively in the energy sector (biodiesel, biokerosene) to produce biofuels. My work sought to exploit this palm in French Guiana, firstly by studying the chemical composition of the lipids in the local Moucaya, and then by analysing the carbohydrates, an often neglected component. The results revealed promising properties, particularly in the carbohydrate part, with the identification, for the first time in this fruit, of original glucomannan oligo- and polysaccharides, opening up prospects for applications in various areas of cosmetics, the food industry and the pharmaceutical industry.
Why this choice of theme?
The choice of this theme was motivated by the desire to contribute to a circular economy system in French Guiana, by developing an underused bio-resource. From a scientific point of view, it was also a question of broadening our knowledge of the chemical nature of the compounds present in Moucaya, particularly in terms of its saccharide composition. This approach also aimed to provide an economic alternative in terms of fully exploiting this biomass, which is not used in the region.
In your research, what did you discover that was new or surprising?
My work has revealed innovative results, particularly in the carbohydrate area, identifying for the first time glucomannan products in a plant matrix. These products have unique structural and functional characteristics, opening up opportunities for applications in sectors such as cosmetics, agri-food and pharmaceuticals. These initial results have been published in a leading international journal (Carbohydrate polymers). Other original results, such as the discovery of the ability of these products to stabilise emulsions over a period of more than 6 months, and the creation of amphiphilic structures that simultaneously exploit the lipids and carbohydrates of this fruit, are attracting interest and will be the subject of a patent application.
What are you most proud of?
I'm particularly proud of the results in the carbohydrate area, which offer promising prospects for French Guiana and Amazonia in general. The multidisciplinary scope of my work, initially rooted in the chemistry of natural substances, has enabled me to find different ways of adding value to the products, transforming a thesis into a diversified exploration. Despite the complexity of the project, we managed to complete the three years of research, demonstrating a mastery of the timing and intensity of the work required.
How does your research fit into a wider context, particularly at regional level?
My work is part of a wider context, highlighting the industrial potential of the original products obtained, both for their encapsulation properties and their emulsifying properties. It paves the way for a bio-refining system, making it possible to exploit all the compartments of the Moucaya fruit. This approach offers a potential economic sector for French Guiana, with the hope that my work will serve as a basis for creating businesses and generating economic activity.
What was the most memorable and/or rewarding experience throughout your PhD?
The writing part was the most memorable experience. Despite its complexity, it was fun because it allowed us to take a step back from the results obtained and analyse their importance in a wider societal and industrial context. It also highlighted the breadth of the research carried out and the substantial material accumulated throughout the PhD.
What advice would you give to students who are thinking of continuing their studies at doctoral level?
My advice would be to take the plunge without hesitation and not to doubt your abilities. Although a doctorate can be difficult, with ups and downs and moments of depression, the experience is worth it.
About Wilfried Denagbe
A former doctoral student at the Qualisud laboratory (COVAPAM), has just successfully completed his doctorate at the University of Guyana. Each year, the university celebrates the achievements of several doctoral graduates, highlighting their passionate commitment to research and their dedication to contributing to the development of research through innovative and rewarding scientific studies. Wilfried, a recent graduate, shares his recently acquired experience.
