Automated needle-free injection method for delivery of bacterial suspensions into citrus leaf tissues.

摘要

A prototype needle-free device was evaluated for delivery of Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri bacteria into the leaves of cultivars susceptible and resistant to citrus canker. The device delivered a precisely controlled volume of bacterial suspension through infiltration of stomata by injection with pressurized gas. The device produced a uniform inoculation of bacteria into the leaves as measured by the volume of infiltration and diameter of the infiltrated area. No damage to the leaves was observed after inoculation with the automated device, even though a higher number of canker lesions developed compared to a hand-held needleless syringe injection method. The level of practice needed for operation of the automated device was minimal compared to considerable skill required to perform the hand-held injection. Results from inoculations with the automated device are in accord with the results with the hand-held syringe method that demonstrated kumquats are highly resistant to citrus canker while rough lemon and 'Hamlin' sweet orange are susceptible.Digital Object Identifier http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0434.2010.01774.x