Detectorrado

Torradoviruses are a recently described genus, with 8 member species. Initially recognised as pests of glasshouse tomato, spread by whiteflies, the genus was subsequently shown to also contain species infecting field crops with other arthropod vectors. Two viruses are listed as regulated Quarantine pathogens in the United Kingdom, Switzerland and the EU (torradovirus marchitezum and tomato chocolate virus), with a further species having quarantine status in the UK and Switzerland (torradovirus lycopersici/tomato torrado virus). Additionally, a potato infecting torradovirus (potato rugose stunting virus) has recently been described in Peru and intercepted on entry to the USA and the Netherlands. There is currently a genus level RT-PCR , species-specific RT-PCR and real-time RT-PCR tests to detect members of the genus, however, there is limited validation data for the detection of these viruses by existing tests. This was highlighted as a potential issue for proceeding with drafting international Standards. Additionally, specific real-time RT-PCR tests are being developed for the detection of the viruses from the genus which are covered by regulations in the EPPO region, and the recent potato infecting torradovirus. The project will aim to validate both existing generic torradovirus tests, and novel specific tests for the regulated torradoviruses (e.g. isothermal amplification techniques that can be used directly in greenhouse and field conditions). Within the project, control isolates would be sought and artificial controls would also be designed where isolates cannot be located. Following validation and evaluation of these tests a Test Performance Study would be conducted with the partners with a view to providing essential validation data.