The Virology Lab is situated at the Plant Biotechnology Centre in Lija and as with the other laboratories under the Diagnostic Laboratories it forms part of the Diagnostic and Control Unit. At this lab various tests are performed for diagnosing quarantine viruses. These tests are classified into three categories namely the Biological assays, the Serological assays and the Molecular assays.
The Biological assays include mechanical transmission of viruses on specific herbaceous indicators. Biological assay is also used for the confirmation of infection by quarantine pathogens.
Serological assays involves ELISA (Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay), Immunofluorescence, Immunoprinting and Lateral flow immunocromathography. In all tests specific antibodies are used for the detection of particular viruses and bacteria. ELISA is the most frequent used test for diagnosing viral pathogens.
Molecular assays incorporate the Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) which is used for the confirmation of the presence of various quarantine viruses and bacteria. Double stranded RNA analysis and Molecular hybridisation are also used according the virus or virus like organism being tested for.
An ELISA plate showing positive samples
Surveys
This lab carry annual surveys for quarantine viruses, these include:
the Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV) survey on local citrus
the Pepino Mosaic Virus (PepMV) survey on open field and greenhouse tomatoes
the Plum Pox Virus Survey
Certification tests
The Virology Lab carries out annual tests for the certification of stone fruit trees at the St Vincent de Paul Government Nursery. In Spring the mother plants at the nursery are inspected for signs of viral infection. All trees are tested individually for the presence of Plum Pox Virus (PPV), a quarantine virus causing severe losses of production in many Mediterranean countries. The trees are also tested for quality viruses affecting stone fruits like Prune Dwarf Virus (PDV) and Prunus Necrotic Ring-spot Virus (PNRV).
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Contact person: | Dr Marica Gatt |
Position: | Director (Plant Health) |
Telephone number: | 356 23397101 |
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Contact person: | Matthew Tabone |
Position: | Principal Scientific Officer |
Telephone number: | 356 23397110 |
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