Towards a Molecular Method for the Detection of Leaf Rust in Lowbush Blueberry
My thesis from the University of Maine Honors College
Skills Used
Here is a link to my thesis from undergrad! The general idea is that there is a pathogen known as T. minima, or leaf rust, that infects lowbush blueberry plants (Vaccinium angustifolium) and, given that this is an important crop to the US state of Maine, it would be useful to catch the problem early and apply control measures. The issue is that it is usually too late (found only when visible on the plant). Here is an example of what it looks like:
https://fieldguide.bcblueberry.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Blueberry-leaf-rust-1.jpg
In this project, I tested several methods for extracting DNA from leaves collected from barrens around the state. This proved to be a difficult task due to the nature of the fungal cell wall. We eventually found and optimal method novel genetic regions that may seperate this particular species from similar fungi. Hopefully, this newfound genetic data can help lead future researchers/biological engineers craft qPCR solutions to monitor/quantify the spread before it is too late for the farmers. It was an interesting project and I am grateful for my entire committee but especially Seanna Annis for their support.
Image Creator: Denis Tangney Jr.
Credit: Getty Images