The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a $419,348 Project Grant under the Biological Sciences program (CFDA 47.074) to South Dakota State University (SDSU) on February 15, 2025. The grant supports a collaborative research project to investigate the genomic and epigenomic architecture governing phenotypic plasticity in grafted grapevines. The research aims to develop an integrated understanding of how the genome of clonally propagated perennial plants, such as grapevines, produces adapted phenotypes across diverse environmental conditions. Key objectives include:
- Examining the molecular basis of phenotypic plasticity in grapevines by analyzing shoot and root interactions, gene expression, and epigenetic modifications under different growing conditions.
- Providing research training for project personnel and outreach activities to engage high school and undergraduate students in STEM fields.
- Making all research data publicly accessible through long-term repositories.
The project leverages experimental vineyards in New York, Missouri, and South Dakota to study the effects of scion and rootstock genotypes, as well as environmental factors, on grapevine physiology, fruit quality, and wine characteristics. The award does not include any planned subawards.
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