A qPCR Assay for the Fast Detection and Quantification of <i>Colletotrichum lupini</i>
2021
Tim Kamber | Nachelli Malpica-López | Monika M. Messmer | Thomas Oberhänsli | Christine Arncken | Joris A. Alkemade | Pierre Hohmann
White lupin (<i>Lupinus albus</i>) represents an important legume crop in Europe and other parts of the world due to its high protein content and potential for low-input agriculture. However, most cultivars are susceptible to anthracnose caused by <i>Colletotrichum lupini,</i> a seed- and air-borne fungal pathogen that causes severe yield losses. The aim of this work was to develop a <i>C. lupini-</i>specific quantitative real-time TaqMan PCR assay that allows for quick and reliable detection and quantification of the pathogen in infected seed and plant material. Quantification of <i>C</i>. <i>lupini</i> DNA in dry seeds allowed us to distinguish infected and certified (non-infected) seed batches with DNA loads corresponding to the disease score index and yield of the mother plants. Additionally, <i>C. lupini</i> DNA could be detected in infected lupin shoots and close to the infection site, thereby allowing us to study the disease cycle of this hemibiotrophic pathogen. This qPCR assay provides a useful diagnostic tool to determine anthracnose infection levels of white lupin seeds and will facilitate the use of seed health assessments as a strategy to reduce the primary infection source and spread of this disease.
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