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High-Resolution Melting assays development for discrimination of fungal pathogens causing Grapevine Trunk Diseases

Summary

Researchers developed quick and affordable DNA tests to identify fungal diseases in grapevines before they show visible symptoms. Using a technique called High-Resolution Melting, the tests can detect ten different disease-causing fungi that damage grape plants. These early detection tools help vineyard owners treat infected plants faster and save money on crop losses.

Background

Grapevine Trunk Diseases (GTDs) are a significant economic problem in viticulture, caused by complex fungal etiology. Current diagnostic methods based on symptoms are unreliable due to quiescent infections and environmental influences. Early identification of infected grapevines is essential for effective management strategies.

Objective

To develop High-Resolution Melting (HRM) assays based on the beta-tubulin gene (Tub2) to detect and identify the most common fungal species responsible for four Grapevine Trunk Diseases. The assays aim to provide a fast, cost-effective diagnostic tool for vineyard management.

Results

The three HRM assays successfully identified ten common GTD fungal species through multi-assay analysis using melting curve profiles. When applied to mixtures of two species, the assays allowed identification and relative quantification of both pathogens. However, some closely related species (Da. seriata/Da. mutila and N. parvum/B. dothidea) could not be distinguished individually but were identifiable through combined assay profiles.

Conclusion

The developed HRM assays provide a new, fast, and cost-effective tool for GTD detection in grapevines, enabling earlier diagnosis of quiescent infections. This technology will allow producers to implement timely management practices and reduce viticulture production costs through better vineyard health assessment.
  • Published in:PLoS One,
  • Study Type:Experimental/Method Development Study,
  • Source: PMID: 41325399, DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0331101
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