Description
PATHOGEN INFORMATION
Xylella fastidiosa is gram-negative bacteria that parasitize xylem vessels. These bacteria are an infectious agent that causes disease in approximately 400 plant species from 75 different botanical families, with the most significant being grapevine, plum, pear, olive, almond, blackberry, and rosehip. This phytopathogen is a quarantine organism for Eurasian Economic Union countries, and member countries of the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO A2 list).
ASSAY PRINCIPLE
«ALSENSE Xylella fastidiosa» Reagent kit has been developed based on recommendations of the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO). The reagent kit is a multiplex, real-time PCR-based assay. The target for amplification is the 16S ribosomal RNA gene region of Xylella fastidiosa. The internal control (IC) is designed based on the 18S gene sequence of host plants ribosomal RNA. The TaqMan® probe to a region of the Xylella fastidiosa genome is labeled with a FAM fluorophore dye on the 5′-end. The IC-specific probe is labelled with a HEX fluorophore, allowing the user to validate the DNA extraction step from plants.
SAMPLING RECOMMENDATIONS
«ALSENSE Xylella fastidiosa» is validated for the simultaneous detection of Xylella fastidiosa and plant DNA by real-time PCR. Since X. fastidiosa parasitise in the xylem of host plants, the petiole and mid vein are the best source for analysis, therefore samples for the study should consist of branches/stalks with attached mature leaves. Young growing shoots should be avoided. Samples should be collected during the period of active growth, which is usually from late spring to autumn.
