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Multiple phytoplasmas associated with potato diseases in Mexico
Norma Elena Leyva-López1, Juan Carlos Ochoa-Sánchez, Diana Sara Leal-Klevezas
1Unidad de Biotecnología e Ingeniería Genética de Plantas, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CINVESTAV-IPN), Mexico.
Canadian Journal of Microbiology
|March 7, 2003
Summary
Potato purple top (PPT) and potato hair sprouts (PHS) are phytoplasma diseases affecting Mexican potato crops. This study identified two distinct phytoplasmas, found to coexist in plants and weeds, highlighting mixed infections and natural reservoirs.
Area of Science:
- Plant pathology
- Molecular biology
- Agricultural science
Background:
- Potato purple top (PPT) and potato hair sprouts (PHS) are significant diseases impacting Mexican potato production.
- These syndromes reduce crop viability by affecting seed tubers.
- Phytoplasmas are strongly suspected pathogens associated with PPT and PHS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To molecularly detect, characterize, and understand the ecology of phytoplasmas causing PPT and PHS.
- To investigate the genetic groups of the identified phytoplasmas.
- To determine the prevalence of mixed infections and potential alternative hosts.
Main Methods:
- Molecular detection techniques were employed.
- Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) was used for phytoplasma grouping.
- Sequence analysis was performed for further characterization.
Main Results:
- PPT phytoplasma was identified as belonging to the 16SrI group.
- PHS phytoplasma was identified as belonging to the 16SrII group.
- Coexistence of both phytoplasmas within a single potato plant (mixed infection) was confirmed.
- Phytoplasmas were also detected in surrounding weed species.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the association of specific phytoplasma groups with PPT and PHS.
- Mixed infections of different phytoplasmas can occur in potato plants.
- Weeds serve as important alternative hosts and natural reservoirs for these potato pathogens.