Molecular detection of poisonous mushrooms in different matrices

Abstract

Amanita phalloides, Lepiota cristata, Lepiota brunneoincarnata and Inocybe asterospora are among the most important species responsible of mushroom poisoning in northern Italy. A real time PCR method for the identification of samples containing DNA from each of these species was developed. To test specificity all protocols were applied on DNA extracted from various mushroom species; sensitivity was assessed performing serial dilutions on all samples; versatility of the protocols was evaluated performing tests on DNA extracted from different matrices. The protocols showed high sensitivity (32 ng dried mushroom), high specificity and sensitive detection of DNA extracted from difficult samples, including pasta with mushroom, cooked mushrooms and gastric aspirates.

• Basidiomycetes
• poisonous mushrooms
• real time PCR
• species identification

The authors thank Dr Massimo Pajoro for help in DNA extraction procedures and Gruppo Micologico “Ercole Cantú” Agrate Brianza for mushroom samples. The authors also thank the two anonymous reviewers for useful comments and suggestions.