Institut für Pflanzenschutz in Obst- und Weinbau
The project aims to establish, evaluate, and optimize metagenome sequencing for samples from various plant compartments and other relevant areas of fruit production and viticulture. This will enable the spectrum of plant pathogens to be recorded and characterized, both in the context of non-specific monitoring or analysis of infected tissue for the identification of pathogens or pathogen strains, and in the more detailed characterization of already diagnosed pathogens. A particular focus is on the use of nanopore sequencing, which enables more efficient metagenome assembly of microbial genomes by generating particularly long sequence data. This not only allows individual pathotypes to be precisely identified, but also enables the spectrum of fungicide resistance, virulence genes, and other functional properties to be recorded in parallel. This approach enables detailed characterization of pathogen populations, for example in specific geographical areas, and thus contributes to a deeper understanding of pathogen dynamics in orchards and vineyards. The findings also form an important basis for the development of adapted, targeted plant protection strategies.
Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity
