Simplified extraction method for ELISA and PCR detection of potato leafroll luteovirus primary infection in dormant potato tubers

This report describes a simple, rapid and inexpensive procedure for samplin g large numbers of dormant tubers for analysis of potato leafroll luteoviru s (PLRV) infection. The procedure uses a common electric drill to simultane ously remove and macerate tuber-eye samples for detection of PLRV by the en zyme-linked immunosorbant assay (ELISA) and the polymerase chain reaction ( PCR). By using these sampling and analysis approaches, 19 of 20 different P LRV isolates were detected in dormant tubers from plants with primary infec tions. Results from the dormant tuber analysis, were verified by planting t he tubers and testing leaf tissue by ELISA and PCR. Similar sampling and te sting done on healthy dormant tubers and sprouts from the tubers consistent ly gave negative results as expected.