Biological and molecular characterization (sequencing and study of gene function) of specific phytopathogenic fungi, bacteria, viruses and virus-like agents and related aspects of their epidemiology. Development and exploitation of serological and nucleic acid-based diagnostic methods for prompt detection and identification of exotic, emerging and endemic plant pathogens affecting main Mediterranean crops. A particular effort is devoted to the study of pathogen's biodiversity through the identification of recombinant and pesticide-resistant strains, the frequency of which is rapidly increasing due to pesticide-based agricultural practices, weather instability, climate change and intensified global trade. This is now attained by next generation and third generation sequencing approaches based on the "Illumina" technology coupled with a bionformatic handling of outputs. Identification, isolation and characterization of microbial antagonists to be used as biological control agents of phytopathogenic fungi. Transgenic approaches to attain suitable levels of resistance against pathogens in main herbaceous and woody Mediterranean crop plants and evaluation of resistance levels in plant crops by quantitative real-time PCR. Study of plant-pathogens interactions with particular attention to the aspects of plant defense mechanisms, microbial pathogenesis and disease symptoms development based on RNA silencing. Development and application of methods to identify and trace GMOs. Development and application of control measures to post-harvest diseases. Identification of mycotoxigenic fungi. Sanitation of plant propagative material from viruses by means of meristem tip culture, thermotherapy and cryotherapy.