Vine Ecophysiology and Functional Genomics

EGFV, UMR 1287 – Bordeaux Sciences Agro | INRAE | Université de Bordeaux

Research Unit Website
Vine Ecophysiology and Functional Genomics
  • ROOTi analyses the physiological and genetic determinants of graft x rootstock x rhizosphere interactions
  • ADAPT characterises the phenotypic variability of vines in different environments and simulates plant performance in the context of climate change
  • QUALyGrapE analyses the physiological and genetic determinants of the effects of the environment on grape composition
  • GENEPI aims to understand the contribution of the genome and epigenome to phenotype

ROOTi 

Keywords

Rootstock – scion – environment interactions. Rootstock drought resistance. Root architecture. Varietal innovation. Genetic resources.

Description

The aim of the ROOTi theme is to provide knowledge that will improve the vine’s adaptation to abiotic stress conditions via the rootstock, increase vine longevity and help future rootstock selection programs. Our research project covers three scientific areas: 1/ rootstock/rootstock interactions, 2/ rootstock development and physiology, and 3/ rootstock interactions with the rhizosphere and microbiota.

Elisa Marguerit from Bordeaux Sciences Agro is currently involved in the ‘Rooti’ theme of the EGFV joint research unit. Within the ‘Rooti’ theme, her work is aimed at acquiring more knowledge about the physiological and molecular mechanisms involved in the genetic and environmental determinism of drought tolerance. They are particularly interested in the relationships between phenotypic complexity and genetic characteristics, thus providing a new tool for molecular marker-assisted selection of rootstocks.

Since the phylloxera invasion of Europe, all cultivated vines have been grafted onto a rootstock. The choice of rootstock is an important element in the technical management of the vineyard. Rootstocks are also an important means of adapting to climate change. The main selection criteria are tolerance to active limestone, tolerance to drought and the vigour conferred on the graft. The physiological mechanisms involved in rootstock/graft interactions in grapevines in relation to the environment are still poorly understood, and this lack of fundamental knowledge is holding back the development of new rootstock genotypes that are better adapted to current and future environmental conditions. The team’s work as a whole is aimed at proposing new rootstocks to winegrowers.

ADAPT

Keyword

Soil-vine interactions. Impact of climate change on viticulture. Spatial modelling of climate at different scales. Phenology modelling. Vine water regime. Effect of nitrogen nutrition and water regime on grape and wine aromas.

Description

The aim of the UMR EGFV’s ‘ADAPT’ theme is to study the interaction between genotype x environment x management in order to adapt viticulture to climate change. Our aim is to maintain productivity and quality while increasing the sustainability and resilience of vineyards. ADAPT focuses on approaches that apply, integrate and scale up basic scientific findings at vineyard, plot, regional and global levels. Our research focuses on three main areas:

  • Phenotyping and innovation of grape varieties, clones and rootstocks – phenotyping the responses of grape varieties, clones and rootstocks to environmental stresses in order to identify the best-performing genotypes in specific climatic conditions.
  • Modelling vine behaviour at the level of the vineyard, the region and the world – better forecasting of future risks linked to changes in phenology and increased drought and heatwave events.
  • Adapting management practices to climate change – extending scientific discoveries into concrete management practices for the wine industry that help vineyards adapt to global change.

The effect of the vine’s water supply and nitrogen status on ripening is also being studied, both in the field and under controlled conditions. In collaboration with the ISVV’s Oenology Research Unit, the impact of these factors on the aromatic expression of grapes and wines is clarified.