Cell wall remodeling mediated by specific PME genes plays a role in grapevine response to Botrytis cinerea

Grape yield and quality largely depend on achieving an optimal balance between crop load and sunlight exposure, which is essential for the development of a desirable phenolic and aromatic profile in grapes.

From the standpoint of wine aroma oxidation there are two effects observed: aroma degradation of oxygen sensitive compounds (polyfunctional mercaptans) and the appearance of new substances with high aromatic power (acetaldehyde, methional, phenylacetaldehyde, sotolon, alkenals, isobutanal and 2, 3-metylbutanals) (1-5). According to our experience, Strecker aldehydes are compounds with highest sensory relevance in the oxidative degradation of many wines (5-7).

The agricultural sector faces climate challenges such as droughts, wildfires, and extreme heat waves, as well as the need for more efficient resource management and the implementation of sustainable farming practices.

Studying disease resistance loci in grapevines (Vitis) is a complex process because resistance QTL often coincide with highly-repetitive NLR gene clusters that are difficult to analysis bioinformatically, requiring extra time and attention to fully characterize.

Powdery mildew, caused by Erysiphe necator, is a widespread disease that causes high economical losses in viticulture. The main strategy to control the disease is the recurrent application of sulphur based phytochemical compounds. However, in order to reduce their accumulation in the environment and promote the sustainability of the sector, the European Commission has applied restrictions to the number of pesticide treatments and the maximum quantity of fungicides to be applied in viticulture. Seaweeds, in particular macroalgae, are marine resources rich in sulphated polysaccharides with bio-protective potential for the plant, representing an environmentally-friendly alternative approach for sustainable wine production.