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Development and validation of a real-time PCR assay for detection and quantification of Tuber magnatum in soil

Summary

This research developed a DNA-based method to detect and measure the presence of valuable white truffles in soil. The technique allows scientists to monitor truffle populations without having to wait for the mushrooms to form. Impact on everyday life: – Helps truffle farmers better manage their cultivation sites – Could help prevent decline of natural truffle populations – May lead to improved truffle production methods – Provides tools for quality control in truffle products – Could help maintain availability of truffles for culinary use

Background

Tuber magnatum, the Italian white truffle, is the most sought-after edible ectomycorrhizal mushroom. Previous studies report difficulties detecting its mycorrhizas but note widespread presence of mycelium in natural production areas, suggesting soil mycelium could be a good indicator of its presence.

Objective

To develop and validate a specific real-time PCR assay using TaqMan chemistry to detect and quantify T. magnatum DNA in soil samples from natural truffle production areas.

Results

The real-time PCR assay successfully detected and quantified T. magnatum DNA in soil samples with high specificity and sensitivity down to 100 fg. DNA concentrations varied significantly between different truffières and were generally higher in productive plots. There was significant correlation between mean T. magnatum DNA concentration and plot productivity in terms of both number and weight of truffles collected.

Conclusion

The developed real-time PCR assay proved to be an effective tool for quantifying T. magnatum in soil and monitoring its presence regardless of truffle production. This technique could be valuable for evaluating natural and cultivated truffière health and assessing cultivation techniques.
  • Published in:BMC Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Method Development and Validation Study,
  • Source: 10.1186/1471-2180-12-93
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