Enhancing the profitability and sustainability of Ontario grape/wine sector: survey and genetic diversity of major viral pathogens in table, juice and hybrid wine grapes

Viral pathogens constitute a major impediment to the grape and wine production worldwide. Viral disease outbreaks have recently emerged as a major economical concern for the Ontario grape and wine industry. Quick, reliable and sensitive detection of viruses is key to the management and control of grapevine viruses and their diseases. In response to this emergent issue, we have developed highly effective methods for the detection of all major grapevine viruses. These methods have been validated and routinely used in my laboratory. Local grape varieties such as table, juice and American-French hybrid wine grapes constitute an important component of the grape and wine industry in Ontario. Unfortunately, little is known about what viruses and viral strains exist in these grapevines. In this project, we will identify the viruses and viral strains from these locally important grape varieties through nucleic acid-based diagnostics. We will also elucidate the genetic diversity of six most important viruses. Outcome from this project will provide the grape and wine industry and Ontario government baseline data on the prevalence and severity of grapevine viral diseases. This would provide science-based guidelines for the development and implementation of clean stocks for broad use, providing tremendous benefits to grape and wine production and long-term profitability.