Shortly after harvest, cassava storage roots initiate the so-called post-harvest physiological deterioration (PPD). PPD is a major problem in cassava value chain as the quality of the roots is reduced by the physiological deterioration. Despite the importance of PPD in the world, limited fundamental research has been performed to understand the molecular events responsible for the initiation and development of PPD symptoms. The Plant Genetics Lab investigates the cellular and molecular events occurring at the cassava root damage sites. In parallel, alternative methods to delay the onset of PPD are being developed in collaboration with research teams in Asia and Africa.
Cold induced sweetening (CIS) occurs in potato during prolonged storage of tubers at cold temperature. This phenomenon is a major constraint for the potato value chain as anti-sprouting agents need to be used for long-term storage at higher temperature. The Plant Genetics Lab investigates new genetics approaches as well as new treatments in order to develop new methods for long-term storage of potato.