The main goal of the program is the creation of new methods of high precision and sensitivity for the continuous monitoring of plant health, with an emphasis on Cruciferous vegetables (Brassicaceae – cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, etc.) and vines (Grapevine). These are two species important for the economy of the European Union and two of the most important crops in the world. In the framework of PANTHEON, sensors are to be created which, in combination with other analysis techniques such as spectroscopy, biochemical, serological and DNA analysis techniques, will record important biological parameters during both abiotic and biotic stress (e.g. infestations by illnesses). The combination of the above analysis techniques and their connection with computational methods will allow the “online” management of the monitoring data (even with smart devices such as smartphones). Thus, a comprehensive and easy approach for predicting plant health and performance is to be created. The technology that will be developed will also be able to be applied to control the health of other plant species, e.g. in the olive tree.
PANTHEON project consists of 9 partners (academic institutions and companies):
The project will last 4 years. Updates regarding the development of the project will be announced on its website (http://pantheonproject.eu/) as well as on the website of our laboratories (www.chema.gr). More information about the project can be found on the European Commission’s CORDIS website.