P-682 - Evaluation of a Reduced-Rate Lactoferrin Application Against Tomato Mosaic Virus on Tomato: A Safer and Cost-Effective Management Strategy

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

10:15 AM - 11:00 AM HST

Location: Exhibit Hall 3

Presenting author(s)

SK

Shaista Karim

Bayer Crop Science
Woodland, California, United States

Author(s)

AA

Alejandra Ahumada

Quality Diagnostic Lab Tech
Bayer Crop Science
Woodland, CA, USA
MM

Matthew May

Bayer Crop Science
Woodland, California, United States
DT

Daniel Torres

Bayer Crop Science
Woodland, California, United States
LP

Leslie Poland

Bayer Crop Science
Woodland, California, United States

Abstract Text: Effective sanitation practices are critical for limiting the spread and introduction of plant pathogens in agricultural systems, yet many products pose financial and safety concerns. This study evaluated the efficacy of a commercially available, Lactoferrin-based product applied at reduced rates to limit mechanical transmission of Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV). Lactoferrin has previously shown effectiveness at 0.5% against Tobamovirus spread and can act as an allergen-safe alternative to non-fat dry milk, which is commonly used during tomato production pruning to reduce mechanical virus transmission. For this study, a susceptible tomato cultivar was inoculated with a characterized ToMV isolate to assess disease suppression. Under controlled conditions, ten plants were mechanically inoculated using gloves dipped in inoculum and then exposed to one of four reduced Lactoferrin rates or a commercially available 0.65% sodium hypochlorite solution for 30 seconds. Disease severity was visually rated and confirmed with ImmunoStrips and ELISA two weeks post inoculation. Results indicate that Lactoferrin at rates ranging from 0.15% to 0.5% effectively reduced ToMV transmission. The 0.15% rate emerged as promising for use in pruning and general production practices. Reduced usage rates may lower input costs, minimize phytotoxicity risk, enhance worker safety, and support sustainable disease management practices. This study contributes practical insights for optimizing sanitation protocols within integrated plant disease management strategies.