WP Number: WP1
Tittle: Use of abscisis acid (ABA) to mitigate the consequences of global warming on fruit composition in table grapes CV Italia and Red Globe
WP Leading Partner: Vittorino Novello (UNITO)
Visiting Researcher:
Name: Dra. Liliana E. Martínez
Position: Full Professor in Plant Physiology
Home Institution, country: UNCUYO, Argentina
Host Institution: University of Torino (UNITO), research work in Sicily /UPalermo)
Scientific contact person at the institution: Prof. Vittorino Novello and Prof. Antonino Pisciotta UPalermo, Sicily
Mobility period: From 19/06/2022, to 20/10/2022
Introduction:
Berry skins from red grape cultivars contain significant amounts of polyphenols that contribute to grape quality and provide health benefits. These compounds can be elicited by plant hormones like abscisic acid. (ABA)
Objectives:
Assess the effects of ABA on grape berry anthocyanin and others polyphenols content in two table grapes cvs. Red Globe and Italia cultured at field condition in Sicily, Italy in order to mitigate the negative impact of climate change in grapes color and other characteristics.
Tasks :
The experiments will be conducted in 2022 at field condition with two table grapes cvs. Red Globe and Italia cvs. cultured in a commercial vineyard located in Sicily, Italy. In order to assess the effect of ABA on secondary metabolism in berries, clusters of these cvs. will be sprayed with an aqueous solution (distilled water) of 1 mM ABA plus Tween 20 0.1% , which will be applied directly on the berries at three opportunities (15 days apart), starting at veraison. ABA control solution will be distilled water and Tween 20 0.1%.
The experimental design will consist of completely randomized blocks of seven plants each including four replicates. On each block, 3 plants will be chosen for the ABA or control treatments, with two plants as borders. Berries samples will be taken after each spray of ABA and in harvest. Concentration of anthocyanin, tanins and flavonols will be assessed on these samples in both cultivar in order to determine the evolution of these compounds. Also ph, acidity, soluble solid content, texture and color will be determined. During 2023, in the laboratory, gene expression of the transcription factors and enzymes of the phenylpropanoid pathway, aquaporins, hexose and sucrose transporters genes will be assessed from véraison to harvest.
Deliverables (expected):
Use of ABA as practical tools to produce high-quality table grapes in Sicily, a viticulture región affected by climate change.
