ENVIRONMENT

ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS: 19 PRACTICES


TOPIC:

Initiative

Protection of Olive Trees from the Most Serious Fungal Disease, Verticillium Wilt.

Protection of Olive Trees from the Most Serious Fungal Disease, Verticillium Wilt.
SUBMITTED FROM:

iGEM Thessaly

iGEM Thessaly has participated in the competition in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, achieving a gold medal for five consecutive years. Additionally, the team has received distinctions and nominations for special awards.

iGEM Competition

Our team is participating in the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) competition, which promotes research and scientific progress through Synthetic Biology, an interdisciplinary field that combines Biology and Engineering. The competition, originally conceived by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is organized annually by the non-profit iGEM Foundation, engaging over 7,000 students worldwide. The primary goal is to present innovative research projects focused on reengineering functional biological systems. This year's competition will be held in Paris.

 



Objective Action

Participation in the International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Competition, representing the University of Thessaly.

 

Target Audience

The Thaelia project primarily targets olive tree producers facing the challenges of the fungal disease caused by the pathogen Verticillium dahliae. Its goal is to provide innovative solutions for protecting olive trees, enhancing production and harvest quality, while simultaneously promoting sustainable and effective methods in agricultural production.

                                      

 

Duration


Description

The solution we propose through the Thaelia project is based on an innovative formulation that utilizes the gene silencing method, targeting critical genes essential for the survival of Verticillium dahliae. This ensures that the pathogen will not survive, preventing its spread and effectively protecting the olive trees. The application of the formulation is recommended during the two most critical periods of the year, spring and autumn, when olive trees are more vulnerable. These seasons were chosen due to the increased temperatures and high humidity, which favor the development of Verticillium dahliae. The project's solution combines innovation, sustainability, and efficiency, while being scalable, low-cost, and easy to use. It represents a groundbreaking approach with no equivalent application in the market, offering reliable protection for olive crops.

            


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Impact on Society



Initiative Location

It is aimed at regions where olive trees are cultivated, as this particular fungal disease is a global issue. Through the targeted action of the formulation, an innovative and sustainable solution is provided for the effective protection of olive groves.


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Working with Organization


Workers Participation


Benefits for Οrganization




Connection with Global Goals






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