Multiplex PCR Assay for Detection and Identification of Gnomoniopsis idaeicola, the Causal Agent of Blackberry Collapse

Abstract

Blackberry collapse is an emerging disease in Oregon caused by Gnomoniopsis idaeicola. Symptoms associated with the disease include cane lesions, reduced primocane production, wilting, and plant death. Symptomatic plants are removed to reduce disease spread in the field. Unfortunately, blackberry collapse symptoms can be difficult to differentiate from those of other non-lethal cane diseases. Diagnostic procedures for blackberry collapse currently require several weeks to complete, necessitating development of a species-specific PCR assay to identify G. idaeicola in culture and in planta. The assay targets tef-1α and β -tubulin and includes primers as internal controls for PCR reactions of plant tissue or fungal cultures. This species-specific assay will provide rapid diagnosis of blackberry collapse and aid with epidemiological studies.