NETTLE, a project by the Faculty of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Sciences, develops the first database in the alpine cross-border region collecting the distinctive chemical characteristics (phytochemical fingerprints) of natural extracts obtained from over 30 species of alpine plants collected across different areas of the territory. The plants are subjected to both traditional and innovative extraction processes – such as the use of supercritical fluids, ultrasound and pulsed electric fields, which are more efficient and sustainable – to analyse the bioactive properties of the extracts.

Its multidisciplinary approach and the collaboration among partners from different regions make NETTLE a unique project, aimed at advancing knowledge of alpine natural resources and enhancing the value of local biodiversity.