Detection of peach latent mosaic viroid by RT-PCR and real-time PCR

Abstract

Peach latent mosaic viroid (PLMVd) is economically the most important viroid infecting stone fruits. In sensitive peach cultivars PLMVd induces mosaic and calico on the leaves and deformed fruits with cracked suture. Early and accurate detection of PLMVd is one of the main measures for its control. In our study we have evaluated the efficiency of RT-PCR and quantitative Real-time PCR methods for the detection of PLMVd isolates collected from peach and nectarine orchards in Serbia. RT-PCR assay proved to be efficient for PLMVd detection, but some of the isolates were on the limit of detection. Real-time RCR was characterized by higher sensitivity in the detection of all tested isolates. Both assays can be recommended for use, but for testing the material within the certification of peach planting material Real-time PCR should be used.