-- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE --
Agdia, Inc. (Elkhart, IN) announces the immediate availability of a new rapid ImmunoStrip® test for Plum pox virus (PPV).
Plum pox virus, also known as Sharka disease, is an aphid transmitted potyvirus that can cause significant loss of yield and marketability of stone fruit (peaches, plum, cherry, etc). PPV is found around the world and is of particular importance in Europe and other Mediterranean regions. PPV detections were confirmed in the U.S. and Canada in the late 1990's and early 2000's which instigated large scale testing and eradication programs due to the severity of the disease.
Agdia's PPV ImmunoStrip is an on-site diagnostic that can be completed with little or no skill required. The test provides clear positive or negative results in less than 20 minutes after following just a few simple steps. These properties make the assay perfect for growers, inspectors, crop consultants, or anyone who wants to test while in the field and get an immediate "yes / no" answer.
The PPV ImmunoStrip has been validated against a broad range of PPV isolates from around the world inlcuding PPV-C, PPV-D, PPV-EA, PPV-M, PPV-rec, PPV-W, PPV-T, and PPV-CR. The range of isolates tested represents all currently known strains of the virus which should provide end-users a high degree of confidence in the accuracy of the test.
Another convenient property of the PPV ImmunoStrip is that it was designed to run in GEB4 extraction buffer; the same extraction buffer used in Agdia's PPV ELISA (USDA approved screening method for PPV) as well as the forthcoming AmplifyRP® DNA / RNA detection platform. This allows current ELISA users to confirm results by another testing method using the same sample extract.
Agdia offers PPV ImmunoStrip kits in sizes of 5 and 25 strips. Test kits include all the necessary materials to perform the assay. For more information, Agdia can be contacted by phone at 800-622-4342 or by email at info@agdia.com
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.
