PCR diagnosis of P. brevicompactum, a grape contaminant and mycophenolic acid producer

International audience; Penicillium brevicompactum is a ubiquitous fungal species that contaminates diverse substrates and commodities and produces an array of metabolites toxic to human and animals. In this work, we have obtained evidence, by LC-ion trap-mass spectrometry, of the ability of P. brevicompactum strains isolated from grapes to produce mycophenolic acid, a potent immunosuppressor. In order to facilitate early diagnosis of this species on commodities for human and animal consumption, we have developed a rapid, sensitive and specific PCR assay for P. brevicompactum. The specific primers were designed on the basis of ITS1-5.8S-ITS2ITS (Internal transcribed Spacers of rRNA genes) multicopy region. This method represents a useful aid to detect the presence of this hazardous species in grapes and other commodities in order to prevent the toxins produced entering the food chain.