Author
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Callicott, Kenneth |
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Cotty, Peter |
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Submitted to: Letters in Applied Microbiology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 9/30/2014 Publication Date: 1/1/2015 Citation: Callicott, K.A., Cotty, P.J. 2015. Method for monitoring deletions in the aflatoxin biosynthesis gene cluster of Aspergillus flavus with multiplex PCR. Letters in Applied Microbiology. 60:60-65. Interpretive Summary: It is difficult to rapidly distinguish individuals of the fungus Aspergillus flavus that produce the deadly chemicals known as aflatoxins from individuals that do not produce aflatoxins and are used to keep aflatoxins out of food through a process known as biological control. USDA, ARS scientists at the University of Arizona in Tucson developed a simple DNA based method for determining which isolates lack the ability to produce aflatoxins and, as such, have potential value in aflatoxin management. The newly developed technique is cheaper, faster, and requires less labor than previous methods and, as such, will facilitate development of improved agents for the biological control of aflatoxin contamination. Technical Abstract: Aflatoxins, potent naturally-occurring carcinogens, cause significant agricultural problems. The most effective management is through biocontrol with atoxigenic Aspergillus flavus isolates. A multiplex method to rapidly detect deletions in and near the aflatoxin gene cluster is reported. This method is useful for identifying novel atoxigenic isolates, potentially valuable as biocontrol agents. |
