PLANTS4AGEING

Abstract

PLANTS4AGEING is organized in four fundamental pillars - Conservation, Valorization, Training and Promotion. In the Conservation pillar, the aim is to implement in vitro conservation strategies for selected plants and, for the most promising species in terms of bioactivities, to optimize micropropagation techniques for large-scale production.

With the Valorization pillar, our objective is to add value to aromatic and medicinal plants, contributing to the economic diversification and sustainable development of the region. The target species grow naturally in the pilot region and have already shown beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system in previous studies carried out by our group. We now intend to explore in more depth the potential of these plants on ageing and cardiovascular diseases (cardiovascular ageing). Although aromatic and medicinal plants have been largely explored, in the cardiovascular field, the existence of a product that delays senescence is unknown. To achieve this objective, plant extracts (volatile and phenolic) will be isolated and characterized and their anti-inflammatory and serotherapeutic potential will be evaluated in senescence models. For the most promising extract/compound, the mechanism of action will be explored and an encapsulation method will be developed to ensure bioavailability, efficiency and safety of the encapsulated extract/compound.

In the Training pillar, the aim is to create a specialized training center focused on aromatic and medicinal plants with specific training for: 1) plant producers and nursery technicians; 2) health-related students and 3) unemployed/general population.

During the Promotion pillar, several activities will be carried out as part of the ongoing Escola Ciência Viva initiative to raise awareness and motivate younger age groups. Also, the investment in a disruptive format to promote scientific literacy is planned with the organization of a Science Festival. This pillar aims to involve more the society with science and create awareness regarding the value of local natural heritage and the importance of preserving it.