Sequence diversity of wheat mosaic virus isolates

Area of Science:

• Plant virology
• Molecular biology
• Genomics

Background:

• Wheat mosaic virus (WMoV), transmitted by wheat curl mites (Aceria tosichella), causes High Plains disease in wheat and maize.
• Emaravirus genus members, including WMoV, have been difficult to characterize due to transmission challenges and complex RNA genomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To sequence and compare five additional WMoV isolates to a known Nebraska isolate.
• To identify genetic variability among different WMoV isolates from various hosts and geographic locations.

Main Methods:

• Near-complete and partial consensus sequencing of five WMoV isolates.
• Comparative nucleotide sequence analysis with a previously sequenced Nebraska isolate.

Main Results:

• Two distinct genetic groups of WMoV isolates were identified based on nucleotide sequence identity.
• Ohio wheat isolates exhibited 84% or lower sequence identity to the Nebraska isolate.
• Maize (GG1) and barley (KS7) isolates showed 98% or higher sequence identity to the Nebraska isolate.

Conclusions:

• Significant sequence variability exists among WMoV isolates.
• Understanding this genetic diversity is crucial for comprehending WMoV biology and disease dynamics.