Simple sequence repeat markers that identify Claviceps species and strains.

Area of Science:

• Plant Pathology
• Molecular Biology
• Mycology

Background:

• Claviceps purpurea causes ergot disease in Pooideae subfamily grasses, leading to toxic sclerotia.
• Ingestion of ergot sclerotia by humans and animals can cause severe health issues, including death.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers for the rapid identification of Claviceps purpurea.
• To differentiate between various Claviceps species and isolates affecting different host plants.

Main Methods:

• SSRs were designed using sequence data from the National Center for Biotechnology Information database.
• Thirty-four SSR markers were selected and tested on 74 ergot isolates from four host species and three additional Claviceps species.
• Discriminant analysis of principle components, cluster analysis, and molecular variance analyses were employed.

Main Results:

• Thirty-four SSR markers successfully differentiated all 74 isolates based on their molecular fingerprints.
• One isolate group was identified as Claviceps humidiphila, distinct from Claviceps purpurea.
• The developed SSRs also amplified isolates from other Claviceps species (C. pusilla, C. paspali, C. fusiformis).

Conclusions:

• The developed SSR markers provide a reliable and simple method for differentiating Claviceps species and isolates.
• These markers will aid in understanding Claviceps population structure and genetics.
• The SSRs are valuable tools for plant breeders and researchers studying fungal movement and crop resistance.