Establish the feasibility of using focused ultrasound extraction (fuse) technology to rapidly release amplifiable pathogen DNA from woody or lignified host tissues, such as those from rhododendron and…

The Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service awarded Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University a $160,916 cooperative agreement on September 30, 2026, to establish the feasibility of using focused ultrasound extraction (FUSE) technology to rapidly release amplifiable pathogen DNA from woody or lignified host tissues such as rhododendron and vitis species. The work applies FUSE to Phytophthora ramorum and Xylella fastidiosa as model pathogens to enhance the speed and efficiency of nucleic acid extraction and broaden accessibility of molecular diagnostics for plant pathogen detection in laboratory and field settings. The project outcomes aim to transform invasive pathogen detection and management, enabling faster containment, reduced economic loss, and improved plant health outcomes across the U.S. The period of performance runs through September 29, 2027, with performance conducted in the United States.

Establish the feasibility of using focused ultrasound extraction (fuse) technology to rapidly release amplifiable pathogen DNA from woody or lignified host tissues, such as those from rhododendron and vitis species, using phytophthora ramorum and xylella fastidiosa as the model pathogens. Project outcomes aim to enhance the speed and efficiency of nucleic acid extraction to broaden the accessibility of molecular diagnostics for the detection of plant pathogens in laboratory and field settings. By bridging lab and field-based diagnostics, this work has the potential to transform the way invasive pathogens are detected and managed, contributing to faster containment, reduced economic loss, and improved plant health outcomes across the U.S.