Detection and sequence analysis of grapevine virus B isolates from China

Area of Science:

• Plant Virology
• Molecular Biology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Grapevine virus B (GVB) is a significant pathogen affecting grapevine health and productivity worldwide.
• Accurate detection and characterization of GVB isolates are crucial for disease management and breeding programs.
• Previous studies have indicated genetic variability in GVB, but comprehensive analysis in Chinese populations is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detect the presence of Grapevine virus B (GVB) in Chinese grapevine samples.
• To characterize the molecular variability of detected GVB isolates using sequence analysis.
• To understand the phylogenetic relationships among Chinese GVB isolates and with global strains.

Main Methods:

• Sample collection from 188 grapevine samples across China.
• Detection using Double Antibody Sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (DAS-ELISA) and Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR).
• Confirmation of RT-PCR results through sequencing of amplified DNA fragments (partial ORF3 to ORF5).

Main Results:

• Five GVB-positive samples were identified by RT-PCR, with two from Henan and three from Liaoning provinces.
• Sequence analysis revealed complex molecular variants among Chinese GVB isolates, with nucleotide identities ranging from 81.1% to 98.5%.
• Phylogenetic analysis clustered Chinese GVB isolates into three distinct groups, with one isolate showing similarity to international strains.

Conclusions:

• RT-PCR is a sensitive method for detecting GVB in grapevine samples.
• Chinese GVB populations exhibit significant molecular diversity, suggesting complex evolutionary dynamics.
• The distinct clustering of Chinese GVB isolates highlights the need for region-specific monitoring and management strategies.