Agdia, Inc (Elkhart, IN), has commercialized the first rapid and field deployable DNA test for Fusarium oxysporum f.sp vasinfectum, Race 4 (FOV4). Based on AmplifyRP® Acceler8TM technology, this fast, simple and easy-to-use test is specifically designed for FOV4 detection in plant stem and leaf tissue. Results are evident in as little as 30 minutes from start to finish with little skill required for lab or field testing.

AmplifyRP® Acceler8TM technology uses DNA recombinase and polymerase, along with other proteins and enzymes, to rapidly amplify target DNA or RNA at a single temperature (39°C) using only a crude sample extract, yet achieves similar sensitivity and specificity as PCR methods. In contrast to PCR, the technology does not require thermal cycling or DNA purification steps which are expensive and time consuming.

The assay is performed using only a crude extract which is mixed with amplification reagents that are prepared in a ready-to-use reaction tube. Amplification takes place by placing the reaction tube in a portable heat block for a brief period of time (15 minutes). Thereafter the entire tube is placed into a device that detects amplified target DNA template using a lateral flow strip. A positive result is indicated by having two visible lines on the lateral flow strip, one a control line and the other a test line.

The Agdia AmplifyRP Acceler8 FOV4 test resulted from a collaborative effort between the California Cotton Alliance (CCA) and Agdia, Inc. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this test will be returned to the CCA for ongoing and future efforts to support the cotton industry.

About Agdia
A leading provider of diagnostic solutions for agriculture, Agdia, Inc. has been serving plant breeders, propagators, growers, universities, and private testing laboratories since 1981. The company offers a comprehensive portfolio of validated, easy-to-use diagnostics for identifying plant pathogens, hormones, and transgenic traits, as well as in-house testing services.

About California Cotton Alliance
California Cotton Alliance is a nonprofit foundation that provides funding for cotton research, agricultural education, scholarships and grants. Our goal is to provide support for the cotton growers, its related industry and all agriculture within California.