The effectiveness of stilbenes in resistant Vitaceae: Ultrastructural and biochemical events during Plasmopara viticola infection process

► Stilbens synthesis is the most effective way to stop downy mildew development in grapes. ► Resistant vines produce high concentrations of toxic stilbens at the sites of infection. ► Functional haustoria formation is not the key-step for the induction of stilbens synthesis. ► Stilben synthesis can occur in all species of the Vitaceae family.