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In this study titled "Population structure of wild and cultivated grapevines in Armenia", the team presents the first comprehensive genomic analysis of 164 Armenian grapevine accessions — both cultivated varieties and their wild ancestors. Armenia is one of the oldest centers of grapevine domestication, yet its native grape diversity has remained largely unexplored at the whole-genome level.
Using whole-genome sequencing, the researchers uncovered a rich and structured genetic landscape. Cultivated Armenian grapevines form three distinct genetic subgroups that follow a west-to-east geographic gradient across the country. This genetic pattern mirrors shifts in grape usage (from table to wine varieties) and berry color (from white to darker types). Wild grapevines from Syunik show four separate subgroups, highlighting a high level of diversity within a relatively small region.
The study also identified genomic regions that differ between wild and cultivated grapes. These regions reflect genetic changes that occurred during domestication, when humans selected plants with desirable traits. Many of these regions contain genes involved in disease resistance, stress tolerance, berry color, and flowering.
Finally, genome-wide association analyses revealed candidate genetic variants linked to agronomic traits, including berry skin color and bunch density.
Overall, the work highlights Armenia as a genetically rich and historically important reservoir of grapevine diversity and provides a genomic foundation for conservation, breeding, and the future development of grape varieties.
Read more here.
