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High Sequence Variability Among Little cherry virus Isolates Occurring in British Columbia
J Theilmann1, S Orban1, D Rochon1
1Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre, 4200 Highway 97, Summerland, British Columbia V0H 1Z0.
Little cherry virus (LChV) causes severe disease in British Columbia cherries. Genetic analysis reveals significant LChV-LC5 sequence variability, impacting diagnostic accuracy for this cherry virus.
Area of Science:
- Plant Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Little cherry disease (LChD) in British Columbia is caused by at least two distinct viruses.
- The LC5 isolate of Little cherry virus (LChV-LC5) is a key contributor to LChD.
- Near-complete genome sequence and specific antibodies for LChV-LC5 are available.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey for LChV-LC5 infected cherry trees in British Columbia.
- To analyze the genetic diversity of LChV-LC5 isolates.
- To assess the implications of genetic variability on diagnostic methods.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) using LChV-LC5 antibodies for initial detection.
- Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on multiple genomic regions.
- Nucleotide and amino acid sequence analysis of 31 LChV-LC5 isolates.
Main Results:
- A high level of sequence variability was observed among LChV-LC5 isolates.
- Nucleotide sequence divergence ranged from 0 to 19.7%.
- Amino acid sequence divergence ranged from 0 to 9.1%, with six distinct isolate groups identified.
Conclusions:
- Significant genetic divergence exists within LChV-LC5 populations in British Columbia.
- The observed variability necessitates careful consideration when selecting diagnostic tools for LChV surveys.
- Further research into LChV diversity is crucial for effective disease management.
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