Plant Pathology Laboratory

Head: Prof. Giorgio M. Balestra – Prof. Angelo Mazzaglia

Email: balestra@unitus.it; angmazz@unitus.it

The activities of the plant pathology laboratory are mainly focused on:

• researching innovative and sustainable strategies for plant protection from biotic stress, alternatives or improvements compared to synthetic agrochemicals;
• identification and study of emerging pathogens, in order to limit the damages caused by their introduction.

The laboratory uses a multidisciplinary approach, integrating the techniques of classical microbiology (cultures of microorganisms, biological and biochemical assays and microscopy) with modern molecular biology for the study of nucleic acids, such as PCR and Real Time qPCR, but also omics sciences (in particular genomics, metagenomics and transcriptomics).

The effectiveness of new defense strategies (mainly natural compounds, nanomaterials and biocontrol agents) is tested through in vitro tests and in vivo tests (using growth chambers, greenhouses and experimental fields), studying interactions plant -pathogen-environment. Molecular biology techniques are also used to develop advanced diagnostic methods for the detection of emerging pathogens, as well as for phylogenetic studies. The laboratory operates in both the agricultural and forestry fields and is specialized in the study of bacterial and fungal pathogens. Various collaborations are active with public institutions and private companies, guaranteeing a close relationship with the regional and national territory, as well as with different international partners. Practical lectures, bachelor thesis, master and PhD thesis that take place in the laboratory deal with all the lab topics.