Ultraviolet (UV) radiation affects the expression of several phenylpropanoid
biosynthesis-related genes, which in turn affects the final composition of
both grapes and wines. However, the full influence of solar UV radiation in
grapes remains relatively unknown.

Researchers from the Universidad de La Rioja, Edificio
Científico-Tecnológico in Spain found 121 grape genes which had altered
expressions due to solar UV radiation. Analysis of the grape berry skin
revealed that genes up-regulated by UV radiation were mostly UV-B
-responsive genes. Secondary metabolism-related genes were also induced by
UV radiation including flavonol biosynthetic and monoterpenoid biosynthetic
genes.

Results suggest that the biosynthesis and accumulation of secondary
metabolites, which adds quality in winemaking, were triggered by UV
radiation exposure. This may lead to additional treatments or practices that
may increase solar UV radiation on vineyards since they may improve grape
features.

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