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On site discrimination between two closely related commercial strains of oyster mushroom using a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) test

Summary

Scientists developed a quick molecular test to identify two specific commercial oyster mushroom strains (SPOPPO and ALLERPO) in less than 30 minutes using a technique called LAMP. These sporeless mushroom strains were created to reduce respiratory health problems that workers develop from inhaling mushroom spores. The new test helps mushroom producers and breeders quickly verify strain identity in the field to prevent unauthorized copying of these valuable varieties and to catch products of suspect origin.

Background

Protection of intellectual property rights on mushroom varieties is crucial for breeding companies to recoup investments. Infringement of IP rights on Pleurotus ostreatus strains is not uncommon due to ease of vegetative propagation. Two sporeless commercial strains, SPOPPO and ALLERPO, require reliable field-based discrimination methods.

Objective

To develop LAMP-based molecular tools for rapid on-site discrimination between two closely related sporeless oyster mushroom strains (SPOPPO and ALLERPO) that can be used to detect potential IP infringement in commercial settings.

Results

The three LAMP assays successfully and specifically identified SPOPPO and ALLERPO with times of positivity between 16-25 minutes depending on sample type. MSH4 assay distinguished sporeless from sporulating strains; AQU07 and AQP58 assays differentiated ALLERPO and SPOPPO from each other and other commercial strains. Simple extraction procedures were sufficient for all substrate types tested.

Conclusion

LAMP-based assays provide rapid, specific on-site identification of SPOPPO and ALLERPO strains to combat IP infringement. The method is suitable for field application with minimal equipment and training, enabling fast confirmation of strain identity in commercial mushroom production settings.
  • Published in:Molecular Biology Reports,
  • Study Type:Method Development Study,
  • Source: 10.1007/s11033-025-11156-0, PMID: 41148377
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