RESEARCHERS from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines developed the loop-mediated isothermal amplification kits that can be used to detect diseases in mangoes.

The development of the kits was part of a research program co-implemented by the Department of Science and Technology and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science titled “DOST-JSPS Joint Research Program: LAMP Detection Assays for Anthracnose, Stem-End Rot, and Scab Disease Pathogens in Philippine ‘Carabao’ Mango” (Mangifera indica Linn.).

Dr. Lourdes V. Alvarez, who led the research, claimed that the kits can detect the presence or absence of the anthracnose and stem-end rot causal pathogens that causes latent infection in mangoes even in the absence of visible symptoms.

“The LAMP kit is envisioned to benefit mango growers, researchers, quarantine personnel, and policymakers as the kit is intended to be used for phytosanitary measures,” Dr. Alvarez said.

The project team has filed a patent application for their newly developed LAMP kits.