Biotic and Abiotic Effects on Pollen Production and Allergenicity of Birch and Related Health Impacts

The study focuses on a highly allergenic tree species in Northern, Central, and Eastern Europe: the birch. A particular innovation is the analysis of environmental influences on pollen from cloned birches free of genetic differences in international phenological gardens in Europe. In addition, the study of pollen from cloned individuals in a seed plantation in Bavaria excludes the influence of genetic diversity, tree age, and microclimate. The analysis of birch trees along an altitude gradient in the Northern Alps also covers a variety of climatic and genetic conditions. Among other things, the influence of plant viruses on birch pollen and its allergenic potential is being investigated.