RNA oligoprobe capture RT-PCR, a sensitive method for the detection ofGrapevine fanleaf virus in Tunisian grapevines

A simple, sensitive and specific RNA capture method is described for the detection of Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV) in infected grapevines. This method consists of hybridizing GFLV-RNAs to oligoprobes immobilized on nylon membranes, followed by RT-PCR amplification of targeted viral sequences. The RNA oligoprobe capture RT-PCR method is 10-fold more sensitive than IC-RT-PCR. The efficiency of the RNA oligoprobe capture RT-PCR and the reuse of immobilized oligoprobe membranes without loss of efficiency could make this procedure suitable for the routine diagnosis of GFLV in grapevines.