PPV Protocol Notes and Tips

A successful survey is only as good as the techniques employed and here are few reminders and tips specific for Plum pox detection.

• The titer of Plum pox reaches some of its highest levels when the first leaves are fully expanded.
• Plum pox virus titers drop when temperatures surpass 30C .
• No more than eight leaves should be composited per sample.
• Collected samples should be maintained at 4C and tested within 7 days.
• Leaf samples or extracts should never be frozen prior to processing the ELISA.
• Samples appearing decayed, brown, and/or moldy should not be tested.
• Coated plates should not be stored longer than 24 hours unless Agdia Post Coat has been used.
• Samples, positive and negative controls, as well as buffer wells should be run in duplicate.
• Buffers should be freshly prepared for each use.
• Prepare controls in batch form for the day’s run instead of making multiple preparations.
• Dedicate utensils if possible; such as using a specific set of beaker and reservoirs for coating antibodies, one for conjugates, and one for substrates.
• Wash plates according to instructions and try to minimize positive carry over by angling the control wells in a down and away position when washing.
• Use good laboratory practices being mindful of sterile / aseptic techniques.