Cas13-based detection platform for Tobacco Rattle Virus in potato seeds
A Cas13-based molecular diagnostic for detecting Tobacco Rattle Virus in seeds, targeting the pathogen that causes corky ring spot in potatoes. The platform aims to deliver qPCR- and ELISA-equivalent sensitivity at lower cost and higher throughput, enabling faster, more informed planting decisions and expanded disease surveillance.
Overview
Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV) is a broad-host-range, seed-transmissible pathogen that causes corky ring spot, a disease that severely limits global potato production. Current seed screening relies on qPCR and ELISA tests, which are accurate but expensive and low-throughput, limiting how many seed lots can be screened and slowing grower responses to outbreaks.
This project adapts Cas13-based nucleic acid detection—previously demonstrated for pathogens such as COVID-19—to the agricultural context of TRV in potato seeds. The goal is a detection workflow that matches conventional methods in sensitivity while reducing per-sample cost and increasing throughput, so seed producers and growers can act on real-time disease data and make better-informed planting decisions.
Technical specifications
Detection approach:
- Cas13-based nucleic acid detection, a programmable RNA-guided system that produces a fluorescent signal upon target recognition
- Custom-designed probes and guide RNAs for specific detection of Tobacco Rattle Virus
- Optimized rapid nucleic acid extraction protocols from seed tissue that are compatible with downstream Cas13 readout
Benchmarking and performance targets:
- Sensitivity equivalent to established qPCR and ELISA methods
- Lower per-sample cost than current TRV screening options
- Higher throughput than conventional qPCR and ELISA workflows
- Validation performed on collected seed samples, with results benchmarked against commercially available qPCR and ELISA kits
Project scope and timeline: Approximately one year from probe and protocol development through validation against industry-standard methods.
Technology readiness level
The project is at an early-to-mid development stage. Cas13-based detection has been demonstrated in other pathogen contexts, and the team is now adapting the chemistry, guide design, and sample-preparation steps specifically for TRV in seeds. Benchmarking against commercial qPCR and ELISA is built into the validation plan, providing a clear pathway to demonstrate readiness for seed-industry adoption. The team is seeking partnership to support equipment and materials, technology transfer, publication costs, and personnel funding to complete development.
About University of Wisconsin, Madison
The University of Wisconsin–Madison is the state’s flagship public research university, a comprehensive institution with a large research enterprise and broad disciplinary breadth. Industry engages through shared instrumentation, pilot‑scale testbeds, and co-located core facilities that support prototyping and scale-up. An affiliated research and technology park hosts startups and corporate R&D, while integration with a major hospital system enables clinical translation; a statewide extension network connects campus advances to companies and communities across Wisconsin. Research is sustained by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, USDA, and DoD, alongside state and industry partnerships. Dedicated commercialization support—through an affiliated foundation and campus offices—provides IP management, licensing, startup mentoring, and flexible, industry-friendly agreements.
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