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Improved multiplex qPCR protocol for simultaneous diagnosis of HLB and stubborn disease pathogens

Project ID:

5300-191

Principal Investigator:

Raymond Yokomi

Principal Investigator Affiliation:

United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service

Co-Investigators:

N/A

Collaborators:

  • Subhas Hajeri
  • Jianchi Chen

Start Date:

2018

Estimated Duration:

2 year(s)

Completed Date:

10/2020

Annual Funding:

N/A

Spread of HLB to citrus orchards in central California is a clear and present danger. The Central California Tristeza Eradication Agency (CCTEA) has a Non-Regulatory Diagnostics Permit from CDFA to test for HLB. This proposal seeks to improve "Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus" (CLas) detection by using sequences of the ribonuclease reductase (RNR) β-subunit gene, nrdB. Spiroplasma citri is included as a model system to optimize sampling and optimize qPCR and isothermal amplification protocols. After field validation, regulatory agencies will be notified and, if approved, the CCTEA and other laboratories may use the improved procedures to screen for CLas.


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