Project Number: 5358-22000-034-06
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Jul 01, 2006
End Date: Dec 31, 2009

Objective:
1. To monitor the migration, population structure and evolution of Phytophthora ramorum in North America using microsatellites and multiple sequence loci. 2. To maintain an open-access, web-based database and culture collection with genotypic information. 3. To develop more powerful molecular markers for genotyping useful in monitoring migration and contemporary evolution of P. ramorum.

Approach:
Isolate collection, mating type determination and DNA extraction: P. ramorum is a pathogen currently regulated by USDA APHIS. Thus findings of P. ramorum in nurseries and certain urban or natural forest ecosystems are usually eradicated under a federal quarantine. Isolates will be obtained from federal and/or state agencies from Canada and the US as SOD is detected. Select isolates from Europe will be included as references isolates. Microsatellite analysis: Microsatellite genotypes will be determined using four rapidly evolving tetranucleotide loci. Marker development: Additional markers will be developed that include both SSR loci and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. SSR loci that we have characterized in the genome of P. ramorum will be screened for with select isolates to find more polymorphic loci. Data analysis: Standard population genetic analysis based on genotype and allele frequencies. Web-based database: A web-based, relational and searchable database will be developed and maintained at the Horticultural Crops Research Laboratory using BioNumerics. Documents Trust with USDA/Forest Service. Log 31120. Formerly 5358-12220-002-12R (12/2007) & 5358-12220-003-07R (1/08).