Transcriptional response of different Vitis vinifera 'Nebbiolo' clones involves molecular signals regulating berry development in coordination with stress defence mechanisms.

"Many research works have unveiled how grapevine cultivars respond to environmental conditions; however, the molecular mechanisms underlying the interplay between clones (vegetatively propagated lines of selected mother plants) and environment need to be elucidated. This study was aimed to explore the complexity of the clone x environment interaction by investigating changes controlled by clone, vineyard or developmental stage. The transcriptome of berries collected over ripening in different vineyards from three 'Nebbiolo' clones was analyzed by integrating RNA-seq data with analysis of candidate genes, quantification of secondary metabolites and agronomical parameters. Transcripts associated to sugar transport and anthocyanin biosynthesis were differently modulated among clones, while genes involved in secondary metabolism and defence, such as stilbene synthase genes, were affected by vineyard, consistently with stilbenoid accumulation. This attests that clone-specific responses exert a role in shaping agronomic performances of a grape variety in different environments, thus providing indications for orienting viticultural practices in light of both cultivation area and clone choice."