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Description
The main goal of this project is to increase the production potential of berries in a new and challenging climate by using high-quality virus-tested mother plants, improving virus control approaches, well-study of associated vectors, and better safeguarding of valuable plant germplasm and plant health. The research objectives will be:
1) Diagnostics and genetic characterization of strawberry viruses in Norway and raspberry viruses in the Czech Republic and Norway using HTS and PCR
2) Identification of potential vectors of viruses in the field
3) Production of high-quality virus-tested nuclear stocks and safeguarding plant health and genetic resources by cryopreservation
4) Long-term preservation of “living” virus-isolates and their genomic sequence in liquid nitrogen.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address the challenge of maintaining and improving berry production in a changing climate. This included issues such as virus infections in strawberry and raspberry plants, the need for better virus diagnostics and control, and the preservation of healthy plant germplasm.
The project conducted extensive testing and characterization of viruses in raspberry and strawberry plants using high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and PCR techniques. The researchers identified potential vectors (carriers) of these viruses, including aphids and other invertebrates. They also developed new diagnostic kits for the rapid detection of several raspberry viruses. Furthermore, they established cryopreservation procedures for the long-term storage and preservation of healthy plant material and virus isolates. Finally, they also worked on virus eradication techniques using methods like “cryoknife”.
The project achieved 55 results in total, developed 4 functional samples (for example real time PCR detection kits), prepared 5 methodologies and number of scientific publications.
The project successfully identified numerous viruses, including novel species, in both raspberry and strawberry plants; characterized the genetic makeup of these viruses and their vectors, contributing to a deeper understanding of their biology and spread; developed and validated new diagnostic tools for more effective virus detection; and established cryopreservation protocols for the long-term conservation of valuable plant genetic resources.
These results benefit berry producers, researchers, and germplasm conservation efforts by providing tools and knowledge to improve plant health, virus control, and the preservation of berry genetic diversity. Some results are commercialised via license and some are freely available to public.
Summary of bilateral results
The bilateral cooperation has resulted in sustainable outcomes, with continued use of results and plans for further research beyond the funding period. The collaboration, which initially started informally, has led to significant joint achievements such as articles, posters, presentations, and a decade-long partnership in cryopreservation with NIBIO, alongside ongoing exchanges of samples, knowledge, and PhD internships, with future project proposals already in progress.