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Real-Time PCR Assays for the Detection of Puccinia psidii
J Baskarathevan1, R K Taylor1, W Ho1
1Plant Health and Environment Laboratory, Ministry for Primary Industries, Auckland 1140, New Zealand.
Abstract:
Puccinia psidii (Myrtle rust) is an emerging pathogen that has a wide host range in the Myrtaceae family; it continues to show an increase in geographic range and is considered to be a significant threat to Myrtaceae plants worldwide. In this study, we describe the development and validation of three novel real-time polymerase reaction (qPCR) assays using ribosomal DNA and β-tubulin gene sequences to detect P. psidii. All qPCR assays were able to detect P. psidii DNA extracted from urediniospores and from infected plants, including asymptomatic leaf tissues. Depending on the gene target, qPCR was able to detect down to 0.011 pg of P. psidii DNA. The most optimum qPCR assay was shown to be highly specific, repeatable, and reproducible following testing using different qPCR reagents and real-time PCR platforms in different laboratories. In addition, a duplex qPCR assay was developed to allow coamplification of the cytochrome oxidase gene from host plants for use as an internal PCR control. The most optimum qPCR assay proved to be faster and more sensitive than the previously published nested PCR assay and will be particularly useful for high-throughput testing and to detect P. psidii at the early stages of infection, before the development of sporulating rust pustules.
Insights
Novel qPCR assays detect Myrtle rust (Puccinia psidii) in plants. These highly specific and sensitive methods enable early detection, crucial for managing this significant global threat to the Myrtaceae family.
Area of Science:
- Plant Pathology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Myrtle rust (Puccinia psidii) is an emerging pathogen threatening the global Myrtaceae family.
- Increasing geographic range and broad host susceptibility pose significant risks worldwide.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop and validate novel real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays for P. psidii detection.
- Enhance early and high-throughput detection capabilities for effective disease management.
Main Methods:
- Designed three qPCR assays targeting ribosomal DNA and β-tubulin gene sequences.
- Validated assays using DNA from urediniospores and infected plant tissues, including asymptomatic samples.
- Developed a duplex assay with an internal host control (cytochrome oxidase gene).
Main Results:
- All qPCR assays successfully detected P. psidii DNA, with sensitivity down to 0.011 pg.
- The optimal assay demonstrated high specificity, repeatability, and reproducibility across platforms and labs.
- Duplex assay provided an internal control for reliable results.
Conclusions:
- Developed rapid, sensitive, and specific qPCR assays for P. psidii detection.
- These assays facilitate early infection identification before sporulation, aiding disease surveillance.
- Optimized qPCR offers a superior alternative to previous methods for high-throughput testing.
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