The problems and strategies of working with HLB
B. DAWSON (1) (1) University of Florida, U.S.A.

Huanglongbing (HLB: citrus greening) has spread throughout Florida citrus devastating the industry. The infection has spread to almost all trees and production had declined to less than 50% of that at the first detection in 2005. The rapid spread is due to the unusually efficient manner in which the psyllid transmits the disease. This disease presents considerable challenges. It is caused by a bacterium that has not been cultured. The host grows slowly and disease symptoms develop slowly. Little is know about the molecular biology of the insect vector. The bacterium is distributed unevenly and unpredictably in the host and symptoms vary considerably. Although numerous approaches are being taken to ameliorate this disease, the immediate need for solutions to save the industry eliminates many long-term solutions such as traditional breeding or development of transgenic trees. Our laboratory is utilizing a transient expression vector based on Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) to search for effective genes against the bacterial pathogen or the psyllid vector. We have found antimicrobial peptides that reduce the disease process and in cooperation with several other laboratories are using RNAi to prevent psyllid reproduction. Because of the unusual stability of the CTV vector and because of the need for quick solutions, the CTV vector is being considered for use in the field as a temporary measure to maintain productivity of citrus groves.

Abstract Number: S1-1
Session Type: Special Session