Effect of stilbenoid extracts from viticulture by-products on grape quality

The project “Effect of stilbenoid extracts from viticulture by-products on grape quality” aims to contribute to the development of sustainable strategies for grape production in vineyards. Grapevines are susceptible to parasitic diseases and thus are conventionally treated with synthetic or copper-based solutions, with significant environmental drawbacks. Studies have shown that stilbenoids possess potential as a natural biopesticides against fungal diseases in vineyards. These compounds are present in various grapevine by-products, such as canes. However, there is a limited knowledge regarding effects of stilbenoid extract applications on grape quality. Understanding these effects is a crucial step toward developing stilbenoid-based plant protection products for vineyard use. The project’s main objective is to access the impact of applying green, stilbenoid-rich extracts as biopesticides to grapevines at different stages of grape ripening on the quality of grapes at harvest. Project’s results will contribute to valorization of viticulture by-products (canes) while reducing the reliance on chemical pesticides in vineyards by the use of environmentally friendly stilbenoid extracts. Considering the scientific complementarity of the two teams the collaboration will also lay the ground for a long-term academic collaboration between the two prestigious institutions (ISVV, UB and WRC, UBC) and benefit the wine sector in both countries.

Faculty Supervisor:

Simone Diego Castellarin

Student:

Partner:

Université de Bordeaux

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture and Food; Sustainability & the Environment; Life Sciences (not health)

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: