Proteomic Changes during MCMV Infection Revealed by iTRAQ Quantitative Proteomic Analysis in Maize

Area of Science:

• Plant Pathology
• Molecular Biology
• Proteomics

Background:

• Maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV) is a significant global pathogen causing substantial maize (Zea mays) yield losses.
• Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying MCMV pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the proteomic changes in maize cv. B73 in response to MCMV infection.
• To identify key host proteins involved in MCMV susceptibility.

Main Methods:

• Isobaric tagging for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ)-based comparative proteomic analysis was employed.
• Cucumber mosaic virus-based virus-induced gene silencing (CMV-VIGS) was used to assess the function of identified proteins.

Main Results:

• A total of 972 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) were identified, with 661 increased and 311 decreased.
• Photosynthesis was reduced, while proteins involved in ribosomal function, stress response, oxidation-reduction, and redox homeostasis were significantly altered.
• Silencing of ZmPDIL-1 and ZmPrx5 suppressed MCMV accumulation in maize.

Conclusions:

• MCMV infection profoundly impacts the maize proteome, affecting photosynthesis and cellular homeostasis.
• ZmPDIL-1 and ZmPrx5 are implicated in enhancing host susceptibility to MCMV infection, representing potential targets for disease management.