Early detection of virus-infected seed potatoes. 'VVF- Virus-induced Volatile Fingerprinting'

Project description

This project focuses on measuring volatile substances released by virus-infected seed potatoes. Such substances are referred to as 'volatile organic compounds' (VOCs). Measuring VOCs for the detection of infections is promising because the composition of volatile substances often differs between healthy and infected plants. In addition, these substances are released at an early stage of infection, often well before the plant shows symptoms of disease.

Problem

In the seed potato sector, viruses are a particular problem. Current strategies to limit virus infections include large-scale tuber testing and planting of clean seed potatoes, as well as timely removal of infected plants to prevent further spread. The long-term goal of this project is to develop an alternative method that enables large-scale pre-selection of virus-free potato tubers for planting. The current project aims to determine whether potato tubers emit measurable amounts of odorants and to gain insight into the composition of the odorant mixture when infected with different viruses.

Approach

To investigate this, potato plants are infected with different viruses under controlled conditions. By means of mechanical inoculation, tubers are obtained that are infected with different viruses. The odorants of both infected and virus-free tubers are collected and analyzed by means of gas chromatography in combination with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). This is an analytical technique with which the complete odorant profile can be mapped and with which individual substances can be identified.

Expected result

A method for characterizing volatile fingerprints of virus-infected and virus-free potato tubers. This information forms the basis for a new detection method that selects and removes infected tubers at an early stage – before planting the potatoes. A positive result can also lead to a large-scale public-private partnership with the seed potato sector and other (agricultural) sectors.

Importance for grower and environment

Early detection of virus-infected seed potatoes lays the foundation for further development via 'smart farming' aimed at selecting diseased tubers before they are planted. This approach prevents unnecessary use of crop protection products and can be translated to other crops. Such a result increases the crop yield and fits in with a more environmentally friendly cultivation.

Partners

University of Amsterdam
Seed potato grower Partnership Geerligs
Amsterdam Green Campus
Verify
High Team

Publications

The publications will appear here in due course.