On‐site detection of plant pathogens using lateral‐flow devices*

One‐step lateral‐flow tests have been developed for the on‐site detection and identification of several plant viruses. They utilize specific monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies in an immunochromatographic format, incorporating antibody‐coated latex particles. These tests have been combined with a novel extraction procedure to allow disease diagnosis in the field within 3 min. Lateral‐flow devices for two potato viruses (Potato Y potyvirus and Potato X potexvirus) have been demonstrated as being 100% accurate in preliminary trials, when compared with traditional microplate enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. This paper reviews the techniques currently employed for on‐site detection of plant pathogens. The development of lateral‐flow devices is described and their possible impact on plant disease diagnosis is discussed.