Functional characterization of grapevine MLO genes to define their roles in Powdery mildew susceptibility by CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing

Galicia, a region sited in the northwest of Spain, is one of the most important wine production area, with five Appellations of Origin Controlled (AOC).

Phenolic compounds are secondary metabolites of grapes. Plants produce a wide variety of this type of metabolites through diverse biosynthesis pathways and their production is sometimes a response to external stimuli, either environmental or biotic stresses. Some of them may act as chemical defenses against pathogens or herbivores and their synthesis is increased when the attack exists. However, it is remarkable that the synthesis of these interesting compounds can be activated even when the stimulus is not present, with the use of elicitors. These are substances that when applied exogenously trigger the biosynthetic pathways conducting to the synthesis of these defense compounds.

Research is focused on the increase of the field of obtaining the wine yeast, under physical and chemical conditions. Study of different influences on yeast production is very important for the promotion

The wine yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae can highly affect wine aromatic profile by producing and/or mediating the release of a whole range of metabolites (such as thiols, esters, and terpenes), which in turn contribute to enhanced aroma and flavor. These metabolites depend on yeast metabolism activated during fermentation which can constitute the ‘’metabolic footprint’’ of the yeast strain that carried out the process.

Throughout the growing season, grapevine frequently encounters environmental challenges associated with heat and light radiation stress, especially during the ripening stage, thereby constraining the yield and quality of berries. MYB24 has been previously proposed to control light responses during late fruit ripening stages, and it has been found to require the co-factor MYC2. We have generated transcriptomic data from grapevine leaves transiently co-transformed with MYB24 and MYC2. Differential expression analysis revealed 179 up-regulated genes (URGs). Considering tissue specificity, where MYB24 is specifically and highly expressed in flowers and late-ripening berries, the expression of these URGs was explored using a previously published Berry Development Atlas gathering berry development data of cv. ‘Pinot Noir’ and ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ in different vintages.