Sylvie Malembic-Maher

Researcher

INRAE, BFP

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My main research focus within the Mollicutes team is the study of the ecological cycle of Flavescence dorée and the adaptation mechanisms of the phytoplasma to its insect vectors, with the aim of better understanding emergence events originating from vineyard environments. This involves large-scale sampling campaigns, characterization of the pathogen’s genetic diversity, and identification of reservoir plants and alternative insect vectors at both regional and European scales. Genomic approaches followed by functional studies allow us to identify phytoplasma genes involved in interactions with insect vectors. Diversity studies also lead to the development of diagnostic and genotyping tools used to trace phytoplasma strains and assess their epidemic potential.