To assess the reliability of dot-spot hybridization assay for the Potato Spindle Tuber Viroid, more than 1000 potato samples
were cross-tested by biological and hybridization methods. Both methods gave similar results with a range of cultivars. The
dot-spot hybridization test was reproducible with formaldehyde-denaturated cell-sap samples stored at room temperature for
over 6 months. This finding means that samples can be transported from field stations to a diagnostic laboratory and allows
for cross-checking of results between laboratories. The data suggest that dot-spot hybridization is suitable for breeding
and quarantine purposes.
Additional key words DNA probe - nick-translation - diagnosis -
Solanum tuberosum L.