Abstract: A multiplex PCR assay was established for rapid and accurate detection of three potato pathogens, Phytophthora infestans, Rhizoctonia solani and Alternaria solani. According to the published gene sequences of these three pathogens in GenBank, we designed 3 pairs of specific primers. The main factors influencing the multiplex PCR efficiency, such as annealing temperature and primer concentration, were optimized. The results showed that our proposed multiplex PCR assay provided high sensitivity and extraordinary specificity. The detection limit was estimated to be approximately 40.0 fg/μL. With its high efficiency, low cost and rapidity, the multiplex PCR assay has great potential application in the early prevention, diagnosis and control of potato diseases.
Key words: potato pathogen; Phytophthora infestans; Rhizoctonia solani; Alternaria solani; multiplex PCR assay