Project Number: 3640-21220-021-06
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Feb 10, 2010
End Date: Jan 31, 2013

Objective:
The long-term goal of this integrated project is to increase early and accurate detection of high-impact plant pathogens. The specific objectives are: 1) Research – Adaptation of existing plant pathogen protocols for use in diagnostic laboratories and the production of high-quality, standardized controls; 2) Extension – Develop and disseminate disease-specific sample submission information to increase the quality and quantity of important plant disease samples; 3) Evaluation – Determine the success and impact of the research and extension portions by using surveys of end-users and assessment of data generated by research and extension projects.

Approach:
This project will focus on developing or adapting diagnostic protocols for the following high-impact plant pathogens: 1) Raffaellea lauricola; 2) Puccinia graminis f.sp. tritici; 3) Phytophthora ramorum; 4) Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus; 5) three major virus genera (Crinivirus, Begomovirus and Potyvirus). Available diagnostic protocols based on PCR will be tested and modified where necessary in order to adapt to a plant diagnostic clinic setting. Positive controls will be developed for each of the assays. DNA extractions methods will be improved and modified for efficient and high-throughput laboratories. Internal controls will be developed to verify assay conditions. Bead-based PCR reagents will be developed. Assays will be verified in test laboratories. Training activities (workshops, development of online materials and printed materials) will be developed and deployed for diagnosticians.