In vitro translation of polyribosome-associated RNAs from tobamovirus-infected plants

RNAs associated with polyribosomes in plants infected with the U2 strain of tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) or with sunnhemp mosaic virus have been isolated. Most are about 0.35 X 10(6) daltons in weight. They translate efficiently in vitro to produce their respective coat proteins which were identified by their serological behavior and peptide composition. They also reassemble in vitro with coat protein. The coat protein of sunnhemp mosaic virus reassembles more quickly than that of TMV U2.