Real-Time RT-PCR Assay to Quantify the Expression of Fum1 and Fum19 Genes from the Fumonisin-producing Fusarium Verticillioides

Fumonisins are a group of mycotoxins produced by Fusarium species of the Gibberella fujikuroi species complex that contaminate food and feed products, and represent a risk for human and animal health. In this work, we have developed a specific real-time reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) assay to quantify the level of expression of two genes of the fumonisin biosynthetic cluster in F. verticillioides: fum1 (that encodes a polyketide synthase enzyme) and the ABC transporter encoding gene fum19. The level of expression of both genes was compared with the amount of fumonisin B(1) (FB(1)), measured by HPLC, produced by several strains of F. verticillioides in liquid culture. The results indicated a good correspondence between the levels of fum1 and fum19 expression and the production of fumonisin B(1). The analysis described provides a good approach for the rapid and specific detection and characterization of the potential ability of F. verticillioides strains to produce fumonisins.