A Gene Probe for the Patulin Metabolic Pathway with Potential for Use in Patulin and Novel Disease Control

Abstract

The iso-epoxy dehydrogenase gene of the patulin metabolic pathway was detected in environmental samples, Penicillium expansum and P. brevicompactum isolated from an organic orchard. Patulin was not detected from P. brevicompactum . Both traits were negative for other penicillia. In general, control of disease and mycotoxin reduction will be optimized only if all sites of infection and contamination are targeted.