Rapid identification of Phytophthora ramorum using PCR-SSCP analysis of ribosomal DNA ITS-1
Kong. P Hong. C. X Tooley. P. W Ivors. K Garbelotto. M Richardson. P. A
Letters in Applied Microbiology ; 2004 [Vol.38] Pages:433-439
Abstract
Aims:The primary objectives of this study were to determine if a single-strand conformation polymorphism(SSCP) analysis can be used for rapid identification of Phytophthora ramorum, an important quarantine plant
pathogen worldwide, and to further assess the potential of the SSCP technique as a taxonomic tool for the genus Phytophthora.
Methods and Results: SSCP of ribosomal DNA internal transcribed spacer 1 was characterized for 12 isolates of P. ramorum, using a recently reported protocol. The SSCP patterns of this species then were compared with those of 18 closely related Phytophthora species. Phytophthora ramorum had a unique pattern and was easily distinguished from genetically, morphologically and ecologically close relatives.
Conclusion: An immediate benefit of this study is provision of a highly effective and eficient identification tool for P. ramorum in the quarantine process.
Significance and Impact of the Study: This study also provides additional evidence demonstrating that the SSCP is an ideal DNA marker for species differentiation within the genus Phytophthora.
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