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Title: CONTROL OF CHERRY RUGOSE MOSAIC DISEASE ENHANCED BY NEW ASSAY TECHNIQUE

Author
item Hammond, Rosemarie
item HOWELL, WILLIAM - WASH STATE UNIV PROSSER

Submitted to: Good Fruit Grower
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/1/2000
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Research conducted at the Molecular Plant Pathology research laboratory in Beltsville, Maryland, in conjunction with scientists at Washington State University-Prosser is leading to technique development for controlling a common disease of cherries. The disease, cherry rugose mosaic, is caused by Prunus necrotic ring spot virus (PNRSV). Cherry growers are seldom concerned with PNRSV because their orchards are generally infected only with mild pathotypes. However, those growers with rugose pathotypes in their orchard find combating the disease extremely difficult. Control demands rapid removal of diseased trees. We have developed two promising DNA tests for rapidly detecting and distinguishing PNRSV pathotypes. The tests can be used on fresh or dried leaf tissue or dormant bud tissue. The tests are able to distinguish between pathotypes in simulated mixed infections. With the continued development of this diagnostic work, efficient and timely control measures will soon be implemented to help those orchards plagued with PNRSV diseases such as cherry rugose mosaic.

Technical Abstract: Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV) occurs worldwide wherever stone fruits are grown and is a serious pathogen of many woody species, including sweet cherry, almond, rose and plum. Sweet cherry trees infected with PNRSV exhibit a range of symptoms from none to a severe rugose mosaic disease. Cherry growers with rugose strains in their orchards find combatting the disease extremely difficult. We have developed two DNA tests for rapidly detecting and distinguishing PNRSV strains. Comparison of the nucleic acid sequence of several isolates of PNRSV allowed us to design pathogen-specific molecular assays using a technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The tests can be performed on fresh or dried leaf tissue or dormant bud tissue. The results of our studies will assist in the control of the disease in orchards and in performing quarantine and certification of budwood for fruit tree production in nurseries.