http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2007-08/27/content_6610468.htm
*Scientists decode grape genome, find flavor genes* BEIJING, Aug. 27 (Xinhuanet) -- Scientists have deciphered the complete genetic code for the plant producing wine grapes, which could pave the way for gene-based manipulations to boost flavour and improve resistance against disease, media reported Monday. Dozens of researchers in France analyzing the Pinot Noir variety of Vitis vinifera, the core species from which virtually all grape wine is made, found twice as many genes contributing to aroma than in other sequenced plants, suggesting that wine flavours could be traced to the genome level. Researchers discovered that V. vinifera had large "families" of genes "directly correlated with the aromatic features of wine," especially related to tannins and terpenes. They also identified the genetic source in the plant of resveratrol, the anti-oxidant in red wine that had been widely associated with health benefits ranging from anti-aging to boosting anti-viral treatments. "It is strategic for a species as economically important as the grape vine to develop the tools and genetic resources" to resist pathogens and improve quality, said researcher Anne-Francoise Adam-Blondon. This would also help reduce the use of chemicals in grape growing, she added, pointing out that in France that grape vines account for 3 percent of farm land cultivated, but 20 percent of herbicides used. (Agencies) [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
