Assessment of the Genetic and Phytochemical Variability of Italian Wild Hop: A Route to Biodiversity Preservation

Background: Northern Italy has an enormous heritage of hop biodiversity that need to be exploited and studied. The preservation valorization through the characterization existent is a primary goal European Green Deal 2023–2030. aim this study was acquire information on Italian wild hops. Methods: Genetic sixty accessions done resorting Single Sequence Repeated (SSR) markers. Phytochemical hops achieved using: (i) high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection for bitter acids quantification, (ii) steam distillation essential oils quantification (iii) Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry determination aromatic profile. Results: eight SSR primers showed high Polymorphic Information Content (PIC), especially HlGA23. α-Acids reached values between 0 4.125. analysis highlighted variability within studied population, some characterized by important spicy fraction, others fruity floral notes. Conclusions: present allowed demonstrated interesting biodiversity. Part have been shown potentially suitable use in brewing. Moreover, several genotypes could used breeding programs obtain new more sustainable varieties.