Project Portugal 2030

Summary

PhysiPlant project aims to revolutionize viticulture practices by implementing physically-based stimulation techniques, directly and indirectly (through the application of stimuli-responsive materials) that will ultimately contribute to an improved plant growth and efficient pest management. Biodegradable, smart materials that respond the physical cues, such as those naturally present in the field will be developed and applied in an incubator able to provide different stimuli to the plant/material. PhysiPlant will thus lead to an enhanced productivity and sustainability in viticulture, through the implementation of the following scientific and technological objectives according to Scheme 1-Annex1: - Acquire an in-depth comprehension of the various physical elements that impact plant growth, encompassing safe UV and visible light, mechanical and electrical stimuli, by applying these factors individually to plantlets grown aseptically (in plant test) as well as in a monoculture of vegetable cells. (Task 1): - Design and develop a device capable of administering multiple stimuli concurrently to plants, directly assessing their growth in vitro. Validate their effectiveness through in planta testing, thereby establishing the most effective stimulation methodology (Task 2); - Design and develop innovative biodegradable materials using piezoelectric biopolymers, available in provide electrical stimuli or ROS (reactive oxygen species) to plants, when stimulate cues such as mechanical, light, and UV, thus mimicking natural environmental stimuli. Ensure these materials are biodegradable and non-toxic to ensure environmental sustainability (Task 3); - Evaluate the efficacy of various stimulation techniques in enhancing plant growth, yield, and resilience to environmental stressors through biological assessment. This assessment will encompass in vitro and ex vivo studies involving plant cell lines, bacteria, fungi, detached leaves or their combinations, as well as in planta experiments using aseptically agar-grown plantlets and soil-grown plantlets. The focus will be on assessing plant health and resistance to pests (Task 4); - Optimize stimulation protocols to achieve maximum efficiency and sustainability while minimizing resource consumption and environmental impact. This optimization process includes thorough toxicity assessments to ensure eco-friendliness and safety; - Evaluate the gene expression in plants following the application of stimuli, providing insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying plant responses to environmental cues (Task 5); - Collaborate with agricultural stakeholders, namely Association for the Development of Viticulture in the Douro (ADVID), to ensure the practicality and scalability of the developed solutions (Task 6); - Disseminate project findings through publications, workshops, and outreach activities to promote knowledge exchange and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices (Task 6). PhysiPlant will be led by a full-time Assistant Researcher, MMFernandes, who also acts as a coordinator of a recently approved Horizon Europe RIA project (VINNY-101130039) for the development of nanobiopesticides and nanobiofertilizers to be applied in viticulture. This project, in parallel with PhysiPlant will allow reaching breakthrough results not only for application in vineyards but also for agriculture in general.