Production and characterization of monoclonal antibodies against the EU-listed pest Thrips palmi

Thrips palmi is a polyphagous, EU-listed pest which has greatly Expanded its geographic range irt the last 18 years. Originating in south-east Asia T. palmi is now found throughout the Pacific, in Florida, in the Caribbean and in South America. Direct feeding damage causes economic loss, but it has also been shown to be a vector of tospoviruses. Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) were raised against T. palmi for use in a rapid detection system to facilitate measures to prevent its establishment in the UK. These were characterized through cross-reactivity studies with other insects including the two species of thrips most commonly found under glass in the UK, Frankliniella occidentalis and T. tabaci. Several promising cell lines secreting MAb that showed specificity to T. palmi were produced. Alongside this work antigen characterization studies through protein profiles produced by SDS PAGE were carried out. The purpose of these studies was to identify any protein bands that were specific for T. palmi and the other insects studied. These could then be used as antigens for the production of additional specific MAbs. Profiles were analysed by scanning laser densitometer and clear differences between the band patterns of the different species were apparent. The implications of this work and the practical considerations inherent in producing a modern diagnostic assay for quarantine work are discussed.