New real-time PCR test for plant material for horticultural crops

Publicationdate: 12 juli 2024

We introduce a new real-time PCR to test the presence or absence of soft rot in horticultural crops. For this test is chosen to use the fast, reliable and sensitive PCR method as test method.

Ttechnique for rapid amplification of DNA

This is done with the help of pathogen-specific building blocks. The increase in DNA can be monitored digitally at any time. This makes it possible to faster and with more certainty confirm whether the samples actually contain the pathogen.

Bacteria

Naktuinbouw has been testing for pectolytic Erwinia. These types of bacteria have been renamed into two different bacterial genera. Erwinia chrysanthemi is devided into new species, all named Dickeya spp.. Erwinia carotovora is also renamed as Pectobacterium carotovorum.

Initially, bacterial soft rots cause water-soaked spots. These spots become sunken and soft. Seepage from affected areas is common. Infection can also be recognized by a strong, disagreeable odor that accompanies the breakdown of plant tissue. These bacteria are often weak pathogens, using artificial wounds as entry point, but they can also act as primary pathogens.

Dickeya spp. and Pectobacterium spp.

Sample size: 1 to 10 stem pieces

Test fee: € 70

Duration test: 4 days

Naktuinbouw Laboratories support sector

To support the sector, Naktuinbouw Laboratories continues to develop new tests that can support diagnoses on plants and seeds with symptoms or just checking for and guaranteeing absence from certain plant pathogens.

For basic fees see price list 2024.

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