In order to study the phytoplasmic diseases of grapevines and their genetic characteristics in Georgia, the Scientific-Research Center of Agriculture, in collaboration with the University of Milan, is conducting a study. One of the main areas of this research is identifying Flavescence dorée (FD) and evaluating the potential risks of its spread.

In the scope of the study, Fabio Quaglino, a professor at the University of Milan, alongside specialists from the center’s Department of Integrated Plant Protection, monitored phytoplasmic grapevine diseases at the Jighaura base, as well as in vineyards across the Telavi, Kvareli, and Mtskheta municipalities.

As a result, grapevine samples showing disease symptoms were collected. Laboratory testing of these samples will be conducted at the Virology Laboratory of the Scientific-Research Center of Agriculture and at the University of Milan. The study will utilize modern molecular diagnostic and sequencing methods, enabling accurate disease identification and the determination of phytoplasmic genetic diversity. Georgian and Italian specialists discussed the progress and next steps of the study during a working meeting. The parties reviewed modern diagnostic methods for grapevine phytoplasmic diseases, as well as plans for further testing of the collected samples and the joint analysis of the results.

The partnership between the Scientific-Research Center of Agriculture and the University of Milan will continue and will include conducting joint research, as well as sharing scientific knowledge and experience.

Professor Fabio Quaglino’s visit to Georgia was carried out within the framework of the research grant project “Study of the Genetic Diversity of Grapevine Phytoplasma Yellows (GY) Diseases and Support for the Planting Material Certification Program According to EPPO Standards in Georgia,' funded by the Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation of Georgia”.