J1-7151

The overall goal of the project is to significantly improve our understanding of the molecular interaction between grapevine and phytoplasmas as the causal agents of grapevine yellows diseases (GYs). This will be achieved by the integration of research approaches of the Slovenian and Austrian teams and with the support of world leading teams in research fields of plant physiology and phytoplasmas – still very poorly explored phytopathogenic bacteria from the Mollicutes class. Here we will perform a comprehensive molecular study in which we will use natural and model experimental systems and innovative data analysis for identification of the key components of plant responses to infection with these highly adapted bacteria. Besides high scientific value of expected results, they will also be directly applicable to viticulture practices for managing GYs.