Specific SCAR Primers for Fungi Associated with Wood Decay of Grapevine

Abstract

RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) analysis, a technique based on the polymerase chain reaction,
was applied to explore variation in 178 isolates of Fomitiporia punctata, 94 of Phaeomoniella chlamydospora
and 34 of Phomopsis viticola, selected as being representative of fungal populations from different vineyards and
locations. The analysis showed a broad genetic variability in F. punctata and a very high genetic uniformity in P.
chlamydospora. With P. viticola, isolates belonging to different vegetative compatibility groups were investigated;
the analysis evidenced high genetic similarity among isolates within groups and broad inter-group variation. For
each pathogen, specific RAPD markers were selected, cloned and sequenced. The obtained sequences were used to
design sequence-characterised amplified region (SCAR) primers specific for each pathogen. These are being used to
develop molecular diagnostic tools.