A<scp>DVANCES IN</scp> M<scp>OLECULAR</scp>-B<scp>ASED</scp> D<scp>IAGNOSTICS IN</scp> M<scp>EETING</scp> C<scp>ROP</scp> B<scp>IOSECURITY AND</scp> P<scp>HYTOSANITARY</scp> I<scp>SSUES</scp>

Abstract

Awareness of crop biosecurity and phytosanitation has been heightened since 9/11 and the unresolved anthrax releases in October 2001. Crops are highly vulnerable to accidental or deliberate introductions of crop pathogens from outside U.S. borders. Strategic thinking about protection against deliberate or accidental release of a plant pathogen is an urgent priority. Rapid detection will be the key to success. This review summarizes recent progress in the development of rapid real-time PCR protocols and evaluates their effectiveness in a proposed nationwide network of diagnostic laboratories that will facilitate rapid diagnostics and improved communication.