Immunoelectrophoretic characteristics of four broad bean stain virus isolates

Four isolates of broad bean stain virus (BBSV; Comovirus group), representing two serotypes in immunodiffusion tests, were compared by immunoelectrophoresis. Two electrophoretic forms (slow and rapid) migrating from the cathode to the anode were found in virus preparations purified from above-ground plant parts harvested 14 or 21 days after inoculation with any of the four isolates. In virus preparations kept for a year at 4 degrees C in the presence of sodium azide both electrophoretic forms were preserved, while in preparations without a preservative only the rapidly migrating form could be detected. In virus preparations from plant roots, only the rapidly migrating form was demonstrated.