Genetic research at the Bovolone Section of the Istituto Sperimentale per il Tabacco has led to the development of new flavored Virginia Bright tobacco varieties by means of classic methodology (backcrossing, pedigree, F1 hybrid M S) and of biotechnology (androgenesis and protoplast fusion). Various F1 male sterile hybrids and a number of self-fertile lines have been developed and tested showing good quality and higher yields. Certain F1 male sterile hybrids obtained by androgenesis have also been evaluated from the agronomic and phytopathologic points of view showing a good resistance to blue mold. Breeding for oidium resistance is in progress.