Tasks

Step-by-Step Research Plan

PharmaStar executes seven integrated research tasks progressing systematically from digital plant mapping and ethnobotanical surveys through metabolomic analysis and pharmaceutical development to clinical validation and regional development planning.

Task 01

Digital mapping

This task aims to map the species of interest using remote sensing data and digital image processing tools, including statistical and/or machine learning methods

Task 02

Empirical Use of Plants Survey

In this task a comprehensive review of the medicinal applications of PNSE plants in the prevention and treatment of Diabetes Mellitus will be conducted. Promising plants and phytochemicals will be identified through bibliographic research to inform subsequent tasks.

Task 03

Sampling

This task will involve the collection of a diverse array of plant material, encompassing roots, stems, leaves, and berries from various plants within the PNSE (e.g. carqueja, cistus, juniper, elderberry). A similar procedure will be followed with the plant matrices intended for use as excipients, including acorns and propolis.

Task 04

Metabolomic analysis

The antidiabetic potential of plant extracts will be screened via spectrophotometric analysis of glucosidase and amylase inhibition. Selected extracts will undergo chemical characterization (HPLC, GC-MS) and interaction studies (Docking, MD). Cell viability and toxicity will be assessed using MTT, SRB, and LDH assays on intestinal and liver cell models.

Task 05

Pharmaceutical development

This task will look for the optimization of solid pharmaceutical forms with plant extracts and natural polymers for antidiabetic activity. Formulations will combine commercial drugs with extracted compounds for synergy. Particles from acorn and propolis will be produced. Bio-accessibility and bio-availability will be tested in vitro, including assays on animal tissues.

Task 06

Potential for controlling type II diabetes

Assess the pharmaceutical formulations' potential for type II diabetes control through in vitro, in vivo, and preliminary clinical trials with APDP support.

Task 07

Coordination & the region's potential

The aim of this task is two-fold: assure the effective implementation of the project and preparation of a roadmap for the development of the region based on the knowledge and technology developed.

PharmaStar

Instituto Superior Técnico

Av. Rovisco Pais, nº 1

1049-001, Lisboa, Portugal

info@cerena.tecnico.ulisboa.pt

+351 218417394 / 7425

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