Development and application of CRISPR/Cas in grapevine

In the context of climate change, the increasing frequency and intensity of hot and dry vintages lead to profound modifications in the physiological functioning of the vine and the composition of the grapes.

Infection of grapes (Vitis vinifera) by Botrytis cinerea (grey mould) is a frequent occurrence in vineyards and during prolonged wet and humid conditions can lead to significant detrimental impact on yield and overall quality. Growth of B. cinerea causes oxidisation of phenolic compounds resulting in a loss of colour and formation of a suite of off-flavours and odours in wine made from excessively infected fruit. Apart from wine grapes, developing post-harvest B. cinerea infection in high-value horticultural products during storage, shipment and marketing may cause significant loss in fresh fruits, vegetables and other crops. A rapid and sensitive assessment method to detect, screen and quantify fungal infection would greatly assist viticultural growers and winemakers in determining fruit quality.

Chasselas is best known for its finesse and terroir-driven character. Typically consumed young for its soft acidity and floral-fruity nuances, certain expressions, particularly from regions like Dézaley and under controlled aging conditions, reveal unexpected complexity, including honeyed and dried fruit aromas.

Accurate prediction of wine shelf life is crucial for quality and economic value. Since real ageing studies are time-consuming, accelerated tests simulate long-term chemical and sensory changes in shorter times, enabling rapid evaluation of oxidative stability, aroma loss, and phenolic evolution through kinetic models.

Nitrogen (N) is applied in the vineyard or the winery in wine production systems. The influence of different routes of N application is not well understood.