On‐site detection of plant pathogens using lateral‐flow devices*

One-step lateral-flow tests have been developed for the on-site detection and identification of several plant viruses. They utilize specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies in an immunochromatographic format, incorporating antibody-coated latex particles. These tests have been combined with a novel extraction procedure to allow disease diagnosis in the field within 3 min. Lateral-flow devices for two potato viruses (Potato Y potyvirus and Potato X potexvirus) have been demonstrated as being 100% accurate in preliminary trials, when compared with traditional microplate enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. This paper reviews the techniques currently employed for on-site detection of plant pathogens. The development of lateral-flow devices is described and their possible impact on plant disease diagnosis is discussed.