2º Congreso Argentino De Fitopatología Libro de Resúmenes

2 º Congreso Argentino de Fitopatología
across borders through well-supported networks can compensate
for the lack of human capacity in a given country. For example, the
International Plant Diagnostic Network (IPDN), established in 2004,
assists local diagnosticians through training, diagnostic technology
research and development, preparation and sourcing of reference
materials and sharing of diagnostic expertise in 14 countries (Miller
et al., 2010).
Technology development, in terms of both platforms (molecular,
serological) and breadth of pathogens targeted has been rapid and
extensive during the past 2-3 decades. Field-ready serological assays
such as Lateral Flow Devices (LFDs) can be used to guide disease
management decision-making or in support of plant safeguarding
(inspections, surveillance). For example, a Phytophthora spp. LFD
served as a pre-screening tool at ports of entry into the UK to identify
potential P. ramorum-infected woody plants. Samples positive with the
LFDs were sent to a lab for determination of species by more specific
PCR assays (Lane et al., 2007). A highly specific PCR assay to
diagnose the invasive banana wilt pathogen Xanthomonas campestris
pv. musacearum (Lewis Ivey et al., 2010) has been used to confirm
identity of the pathogen as it spread into additional countries (Carter
et al., 2009). Molecular tools such as isothermal DNA amplification
techniques (Vincelli and Tisserat, 2008) promise to provide high
sensitivity and specificity, as well as speed and ease of use for “infield”
applications. The cost of LFDs, other serological tests and DNA
amplification assays continue to decline, making them affordable in
many situations. However, these costs are too high for widespread
adoption of the assays in the developing world, at least in the near
term. The exception may be for high-value crops such as glasshouse
tomatoes and ornamental plants being grown in these countries.
Finally, adequate infrastructure is necessary for well-functioning
diagnostic laboratories. This includes not only the physical space
but availability of well-maintained equipment such as microscopes,
incubators and thermal cyclers, necessary glassware and consumables
including media, reagents, etc. Most diagnostic laboratories in
developed countries are sufficiently equipped and well-maintained for
at least routine laboratory analyses. Laboratories within the NPDN and
other networks are connected via internet-enabled microscopes that
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