New detection method for Erwinia amylovora
A sensitive and specific method for the detection of Erwinia amylovora (EPPO A2 quarantine pest) has been developed by collaborative work between France and Spain. This method is based on ELISA-DASI enrichment method with monoclonal antibodies. King's B and CCT were used as enrichment media, and it was found that the best enrichment was obtained with King'B in winter and with CCT in summer. The method allows the detection of 10-100 cells of E. amylovora per ml, mixed with extracts from pear, apple and pyracantha tissues. It was shown that the method could successfully and specifically detect the bacterium in pure cultures and in naturally infected plant material. When compared with other detection techniques, it was found to be as sensitive as PCR and more sensitive than direct isolation on King's B medium. The authors concluded that the ELISA enrichment method could reliably be used to process large amounts of samples at low cost, and therefore could be a useful tool for quarantine, routine analysis or epidemiological purposes.
Sources
Gorris, M.T.; Cambra, M.; Llop, P.; López, M.M.; Lecomte, P.; Chartier, R.; Paulin, J.P. (1996) A sensitive and specific detection of Erwinia amylovora based on the ELISA-DASI enrichment method with monoclonal antibodies.
Acta Horticulturae, 441, 41-46.
Gorris, M.T.; Camarasa, E.; López, M.M.; Cambra, M.; Paulin, J.P.; Chartier, R. (1996) Production and characterization of monoclonal antibodies specific for Erwinia amylovora and their use in different serological techniques.
Acta Horticulturae, 441, 47-51.