A quantitative method for determining relative colonization rates of maize callus by Fusarium graminearum for resistance gene evaluations

A quantitative PCR method was developed for detecting Fusarium graminearum growing in maize callus. Fungal DNA was detected 12 h after inoculation (detection limit, 0.2 pg) and was correlated with visual ratings. The method effectively quantified fungal growth in callus overexpressing a peroxidase gene conferring fungal resistance.