Abstracts
Workgroup: Frontiers in Disease Research

A Molecular Approach to Environment Studies on Perkinsus marinus. Transmission Dynamics of Infection in Chesapeake Bay.

• Validation that the PCR detection method is more sensitive than FTM methodology, and detects infections earlier in the season than FTM.

• Confirmation that there are at least two major genotypes of P. marinus, (Type I and II), and the finding that they have differential geographic distribution.

• Validation of a quantitative PCR method of Dermo detection.

• Application of the PCR methodology to study P. marinus reservoirs in other estuarine species and sediment.

• Unlike FTM, detection of P. marinus by PCR methodology is highly sensitive for all life stages: trophozoite, hypnospore, zoospore.

• Earlier detection of Dermo infections will allow improved monitoring and management of oyster stocks

• Species-specific detection will allow false positives for P. marinus, possible with the FTM method, to be avoided.

• Major savings to seed producers with non-P. marinus species of Perkinsus that would not be able to market their product if FTM were the sole criterion for assessment of Dermo.

• Quantitative, species-specific detection of Perkinsus spp will allow close monitoring of experimental field trials and laboratory experiments.

• Detection of P. marinus and other Perkinsus spp in possible reservoir hosts and sediment represents a significant

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