Comparison of five DNA extraction methods for detection of leaf scald in sugarcane through PCR

Abstract

Among the techniques used for Leaf Scald diagnosis, PCR is considered the most sensitive, however this technique has limitations for use in large-scale analysis, particularly because of the difficulty/complexity associated with DNA extraction. Detection success largely depends upon the host species and the protocol used for DNA extraction. Here we describe a comparison of five DNA extraction methods and determine which one is more efficient for large scale detection of Leaf Scald through PCR. DNA extraction was performed from: a. Bacterial culture; b. Bacterial culture added to the vascular fluid from sugarcane; and c. From infected plant stalks. Of the five methods tested, three were effective for large-scale detection by PCR.