PCR and sequence based strategies for the detection of ACCase inhibitor resistance in grass weeds

The molecular basis of resistance has been established for a number of diff erent herbicides, especially where resistance is due to target site modific ations. However, in the case of ACCase-inhibitor resistance the mutations w hich lead to an insensitive target enzyme are, as yet, uncharacterised. One approach by which such mutations may be identified is the amplification of genomic DNA fragments using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and seque ncing these fragments in resistant and susceptible lines. The rationale beh ind this process is described, and the advantages and disadvantage of using molecular biology techniques as an adjunct to traditional diagnostic pract ices discussed.