Molecular methods for detection of plant pathogens -: What is the future?

Monoclonal antibodies, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and DNA-based technologies such as the polymerase chain reaction have been the basis for molecular detection in modern plant pathology. Genomics and biosystematics research are generating fast-growing databases that can be used to design molecular assays for simultaneous detection of a large number of pathogens and beneficial organisms. The medical research field is creating novel platforms with unprecedented capabilities for multiplexing, high throughput and portability, which will provide new opportunities for plant pathology. As new molecular testing devices gain wide acceptance in medical diagnostics, tools for routine monitoring of pathogens and beneficial organisms should become more commonly used in plant pathology if we successfully manage to adapt these technologies to a wide range of microorganisms and substrates.