APPLEGENIE - Predictive diagnostics based on gene expression for rapid assessment of crop load programs and bitter pit disorder in apple fruit

AppleGenie aims at new scientific knowledge and technology for assessing the physiological status of apple orchards as a means to overcome two major burdens for apple growers and fresh chains: Ineffective thinning programs for crop load management; and Bitter pit post-harvesting disorder. The project displays a molecular diagnostics solution given as three different components: full protocols for diagnostics; off-the-shelf sampling kits for on-site preparation of samples prior to analysis; desktop compact laboratory for on-site analysis through the use of the kits. It gives molecular diagnostics the momentum it needs in apple horticulture. A new business model based on molecular diagnostics services was put in place through transnational collaboration to develop reliable diagnostics tools, with a primary focus on two badly needed.