The Flavescence Dorée (FD) Resistant Grapevine Development

Supervisor: Dr.ssa Elisa Angelini
Co-supervisor: Prof.ssa Rachele Falchi

This project is dedicated to addressing the challenging issue of Flavescence Dorée (FD), a destructive disease affecting grapevines, using modern biotechnology techniques.

The project's overarching goals include creating FD-resistant grapevines, addressing challenges in traditional breeding methods, and alleviating GMO-related concerns. The collaboration involves the University of Udine and the Research Centre for Viticulture and Enology (CREA-VE).

Traditional breeding methods, while useful, have typically been slow and fraught with challenges, especially in achieving disease resistance without compromising other desirable traits. In contrast, recent breakthroughs in plant biotechnology, particularly the advent of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing technology, have significantly accelerated the pace of crop improvement. This revolutionary technique allows for precise and targeted genetic modifications, enabling the development of FD-resistant grapevines more efficiently and effectively than ever before.

The project involves several phases, including the characterization and evaluation of grapevine germplasms, the development of genomic tools, genetic linkage and QTL mapping, transcriptomic experiments and analysis, and genetic manipulation using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Each phase aims to contribute vital information and insights into understanding the genetic basis of FD resistance. Ultimately, this project represents a significant advancement in addressing FD in grapevines through innovative genetic approaches, with the overarching objective of achieving a sustainable and productive agricultural outcome.

Biography and Contacts

Email: yassin.eliasshewabez@spes.uniud.it, eliasshwabez.yassin@crea.gov.it 

Phone: +39 3481785555