Attività

Our research involves the identification, characterization and preservation of nut and fruit tree germplasm, and biodiversity conservation. We also focus on the breeding and selection of new cultivars, fruit and nut quality as well as post-harvest technologies.

Research Objectives

The rescue, characterization and preservation of the germplasm of nut and fruit tree species represent cultural strategies to valuate the resources strictly linked to the natural environment. Besides the commercial value of the genotypes, the conservation of the biodiversity is a tool in breeding programs to improve the obtention of new varieties, more resistant to the major pests and diseases, aimed at enlarging the basis of the cultivated germplasm.

Several activities of the research group involve the study and the exploitation of biodiversity: germplasm search, characterization and description; breeding and selection of new cultivars; fruit and nut quality characterisation in different genotypes; application of post-harvest techniques. Diversity is evaluated both by the analysis of molecular markers and by morpho-phenological traits in species such as chestnut, hazelnut, walnut and apple.

Areas of Scientific Expertise

Genetic traits are the basis of diversity and of cultivar and selection performance. Genetic maps are being developed for chestnut and hazelnut segregating for several traits of interest: resistance to pests, nut quality, phenological (budburst, flowering) and physicological (vigour, sucker aptitude) characters. Trascriptome analysis and advanced genetic studies are carried out in sinergy by Horticulturists and Geneticists.

Nut and fruit quality is evaluated considering its variation among genotypes (mainly apple, hazelnut, walnut, plum, cherry, chestnut) and characteristics of nutraceutical interest such as antioxidant capacity and phenolics content, in order to expand the local produce supply and satisfy the ever growing consumer requirements.

The aim of post-harvest research is to improve the sustainability of the fruit supply chain by optimizing their quality and shelf life through the use of post harvest technology. The driver of all research's activity is the adoption of innovation in the management of fruit production and process that can be able to fulfil sustainability criteria (economical, ecological and social). Smart integration of multidisciplinary aspect such as physiological, safety, and instrumental and sensory quality measurement concepts is essential to develop the most effective handling procedures and innovative technologies for maintaining quality and shelf stability of fruit products.

Research Facilities

• ANALYTICAL LABS : used for manipulation, qualitative and routine analysis of fruits. Equipped with Diode Array HPLC, centrifuges and preparatory tools.
• MOLECULAR LAB: equipped for molecular biology technique applications. Equipped with 3130 Genetic analyser, thermal cyclers, centrifuges.
• COLD ROOMS: used for the storage of fruit samples and propagation materials.
• CONTROLLED ATMOSPHERE ROOMS: there are four controlled atmosphere cells used for post-harvest storage experiments on different species of fruit.
• GREEN-HOUSES: used for propagation and plant physiology experiments.

Research Group

• Roberto Botta
• Giancarlo Bounous
• Sergio Lanteri
• Cristiana Peano
• Ezio Portis
• Gabriele Beccaro
• Giovanna Giacalone