Important considerations for molecular approaches to screening methods for the detection of Aspergillus spp. in cannabis
As the nascent cannabis industry grows, there is a burgeoning demand for novel approaches to pathogen detection in a variety of cannabis matrices. Notably, a need for fungal testing in cannabis products has been indicated. While fungal analysis has historically been conducted utilizing cultural methodology, there has been a recent focus on alternative, molecular-based assays for fungal detection and identification in cannabis. In response to innovation in the industry and a desire for more rapid, highly specific approaches to testing, molecular-based testing platforms were evaluated for the detection and identification of Aspergillus spp. in cannabis.
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Webinar Summary
As the nascent cannabis industry grows, there is a burgeoning demand for novel approaches to pathogen detection in a variety of cannabis matrices. Notably, a need for fungal testing in cannabis products has been indicated. While fungal analysis has historically been conducted utilizing cultural methodology, there has been a recent focus on alternative, molecular-based assays for fungal detection and identification in cannabis. In response to innovation in the industry and a desire for more rapid, highly specific approaches to testing, molecular-based testing platforms were evaluated for the detection and identification of Aspergillus spp. in cannabis.
Specifically, varying enrichment conditions, DNA extraction methods, and a research use only (RUO) PCR testing kit were cross compared for relative efficacy to screen uninoculated and inoculated cannabis flower matrices for Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus fumigatus, and Aspergillus flavus.
- The importance of fungal testing in cannabis products
- Current cultural methods for fungal analysis
- Innovative molecular-based assays for detection of Aspergillus spp.
Speaker Information:
Marijuana Reference Laboratory Lead Scientist
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
