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Molecular Diagnostics

The main focus of the division Molecular Diagnostics is directed towards research on apple proliferation and the yellows diseases of grapevine. A new real-time PCR-based method for the detection of apple proliferation phytoplasma was developed in the Molecular Biology Laboratory (Journal of Microbiological Methods 2004, 57, 135-145). This method is characterised by both high specificity and high sensitivity. It also includes an internal positive control which ensures the quality of the detection reaction. Currently, the method is used for different experimental approaches and routine diagnosis. In the course of the Strategic Project on Apple Proliferation – APPL, gene expression analyses using microarray technology and protein analysis are applied in order to understand the mechanisms of interaction between the pathogen and its host plant.

The goal of the project is to understand the molecular processes involved in the expression of disease symptoms and the natural defence reaction of the plant - as a basis for the development of new control strategies for apple proliferation. In addition to phytoplasma research, diagnosis of latent fire blight infections and genetic characterisation of the causing agents of "white haze" are performed (Informatore fitopatologico 2006, 12, 60-63).

Within the Interreg III A-project "Development of a DNA-Chip for Characterisation and Valorisation of Hay from Alpine Pastures" a prototype of a DNA microarray has been developed that allows identification of single plant species in complex hay mixtures. A further advancement of this molecular tool could be used in the future as an alternative method for vegetation surveys or fodder analysis.