Intra

In the INTRA project genomics, transcriptomics, and physiology converge. Our project takes a cutting-edge, multidisciplinary approach by combining natural variation, physiological measurements, and molecular techniques. Through the integration of these diverse fields, we aim to interpret and analyze datasets using state-of-the-art bioinformatic platforms.

Our team consists of a group of experts who bring unique perspectives and skills to the project. Principal researcher Fatemeh Maghuly (BOKU, Vienna, Austria) has expertise in developing and adapting novel molecular biology and omics methodologies, as well as data analysis in various plant systems. Tamás Deák (The Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences) and Ferdinand Regner (HBLA&BA Klosterneuburg, Austria) offer expertise in viticulture, with a focus on grapevine genomics and bioinformatics.

Together, our collective knowledge and expertise allow us to tackle the complex challenges in understanding and enhancing grapevine health. By leveraging advanced techniques and collaborative efforts, we aim to unlock valuable insights and drive innovation in the field of viticulture.

Project partners

BOKU Universität für Bodenkultur Vienna	Höhere Bundeslehranstalt Klosterneuburg und bundesamt für Wein- und Obstbau (HBLA)	Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Dr. Fatemeh Maghuly	Dr. Ferdinand Regner	Dr. Deák Tamás

Our project aims to address the persistent issue of magnesium (Mg) deficiency in vineyards, which hampers the quality potential of domestic wines. Specifically, we focus on Welschriesling (WR), an important grape variety for Austrian viticulture that is particularly affected by Mg deficiency. The problem is most prevalent in regions with sufficient precipitation and light soils, where Mg is easily leached out, leaving reduced availability for the vines. It is crucial to optimize the uptake and metabolism of Mg in the vines to mitigate this issue.

While suitable rootstock options exist with efficient Mg uptake capabilities, the choices are less favorable when it comes to the scion. Currently available WR clones in domestic viticulture exhibit suboptimal Mg uptake. Therefore, our project aims to identify genotypes that demonstrate improved Mg uptake and explore the genetic basis of this trait. By doing so, we can develop valuable biomarkers that enable the selection of WR clones based on their efficiency in Mg uptake. This would facilitate differentiation between efficient and inefficient clones, contributing to more targeted vineyard management practices.

The discovery and development of new Mg-efficient clones would not only benefit domestic vine nurseries and viticulture but also enable the supply of high-quality vine material to neighboring countries such as Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia, and Slovakia, where the Mg deficiency issue is also prevalent. This would provide a competitive advantage for domestic planting material companies and foster collaboration within the wine industry across borders.

Through our project, we aim to enhance vineyard productivity, improve wine quality, and strengthen the overall sustainability of viticulture in the region. By focusing on Mg uptake and identifying the responsible genes, we strive to contribute to the growth and success of the domestic wine sector while fostering international partnerships for a shared solution to the Mg deficiency challenge.

The background of the project is the remarkable contribution of our collaborator, Dr. Ferdinand Regner, from the Department of Grapevine Breeding at HBLA u. BA für Wein und Obstbau Klosterneuburg. Dr. Regner has made significant strides in the field by constructing and studying a genetic linkage map of grapevines. This map was developed using the pseudo-testcross strategy, analyzing 92 progeny resulting from a cross between WR and Sirius.

To gain insights into a specific defect, the segregation pattern of this trait was compared with that of 251 molecular markers, including 237 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and 14 randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. These markers played a vital role in constructing the genetic maps, which were categorized into 20 linkage groups. The maternal (WR) and paternal (Sirius) maps were aligned to create a gene consensus map. This comprehensive map facilitated the identification of a QTL (Quantitative Trait Loci) within linkage group 11. These loci were found to potentially correlate with visual symptoms of magnesium deficiency and the concentration of magnesium in grape zone leaves. Notably, two SSR markers exhibited a strong affinity for the core region of the Mg QTL.

Additionally, Dr. Regner’s research group conducted perennial leaf analyses on 43 WR genotypes, exploring micro- and macroelements. Through their meticulous investigations, they discovered significant differences among these genotypes.

Dr. Regner’s pioneering work and expertise serve as the foundation of our project. His genetic linkage map, the identification of the Mg QTL, and the leaf analyses provide valuable insights into the genetic factors influencing magnesium deficiency, its visual effects, and the magnesium concentration in grape zone leaves. These significant findings propel our project forward as we strive to enhance grapevine health and advance viticulture practices.