Scientists reach a milestone: full grapevine genome sequenced successfully

In a groundbreaking research initiative in Spain, scientists from the CSIC and the University of Valencia have successfully mapped out the versions of the grapevine genome, specifically pinpointing genes tied to stress from pests and drought. This remarkable feat is expected to pave the way for the development of future vineyards resilient to the looming threat of climate change, a major concern for the global wine industry.

An International Endeavor

The research, a collaborative international project, saw the active participation of the Institute of Integrative Systems Biology (I2SysBio), a joint center between CSIC and the University of Valencia. Researchers managed to complete versions 4 and 5 of the grapevine reference genome (vitis vinifera). These versions house a myriad of genes connected to pest-induced stress, drought stress, and even genes pivotal to the aromatic quality of fruits.

The valuable insights gleaned from this project are set to usher in a new era of vineyards that can withstand the adversities brought on by changing global climates, a development that is crucial for preserving the wine industry's future. Their findings have been featured in esteemed journals such as Horticulture Research and G3 Genes|Genomes|Genetics.

Building on Previous Discoveries

While the initial sequencing of the grapevine was accomplished back in 2007, it was deemed incomplete, leaving numerous regions uncharted. A significant chunk of these genome fragments, now successfully assembled, corresponds to centromeric and telomeric regions (located at the center and ends of chromosomes). The complexity of these regions, replete with repetitive sequences, had previously made them difficult to read and decipher.

Having access to a fully realized genome is tantamount to unlocking the complete genetic blueprint of a species. Armed with this newfound knowledge, researchers can delve deeper into the function of every gene, aligning them with traits essential for the wine industry, and harnessing computational biology tools. This genetic advancement, coupled with traditional breeding methods, will significantly contribute to the evolution of future vineyards.

Refined Techniques and Genetic Insights

The fourth version of the genome revealed intriguing details about the lineage of the PN40024 crop used. Originally thought to be a derivative of the Pinot Noir variety, later genomic analysis identified it as the Helfensteiner variety—a cross between Pinot Noir and Schiava Grossa. Moreover, the fifth genome version can confidently proclaim a full sequencing of the grapevine genome.

The employed technology hinges on 'long read sequencing', a DNA sequencing method capable of mapping much longer DNA fragments than traditional short read sequencing techniques. The fourth version utilized standard PacBio long sequence technology, whereas the fifth employed high-fidelity, or HiFi, technology. HiFi readings, obtained through circular consensus sequencing on PacBio long read systems, offer exceptional resolution, boasting an impressive single molecule reading accuracy of 99.9%.

Project Cost Grapedia and the Road Ahead

Both scientific endeavors were carried out under the aegis of the Cost Grapedia project, a federative database proposed as an open-access platform tailored to tackle challenges associated with accessing and utilizing genetic, omic, and phenotyping data related to grapevines. The initiative is helmed by José Tomás Matus, a researcher from the Ramón y Cajal Program at the University of Valencia and I2SysBio (CSIC – UV), and is generously funded by the European Cost Office (Cooperation in Science and Technology).