Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assays have become an important and widely used tool for plant disease diagnosis. Thanks to a great deal of published research over the last two decades, there are primer sets and protocols available for a wide range of plant pathogens. In addition, advanced applications such as real-time quantitative (q) PCR and isothermal DNA amplifica
tion are being adopted for plant disease diagnosis. Today, Professor Francesca Peduto Hand provided an excellent primer on the theory and practice of end-point PCR, qPCR and isothermal DNA amplification assays such as LAMP.
The laboratory began with an end-point PCR assay, and participants extracted DNA, calculated master mix components, practiced accurate pipetting, and set up PCR assays. Mynul Islam and Claudio Vrisman led the group through the PCR paces. The assays will be completed tomorrow.
The group also learned all about the identification of mites from Dr. Cal Welbourn, Florida Dept of Agriculture, via videoconference. Dr. Welbourn presented an extensive survey of the different types of pest and beneficial species of mites and how they can be identified.