Multiplication of maize rayado fino virus in the leafhopper vector Dalbulus maidis

Area of Science:

• Plant Virology
• Entomology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Maize rayado fino virus (MRFV) is a significant pathogen affecting maize crops.
• Understanding the virus-vector relationship is crucial for disease management.
• Dalbulus maidis is the primary leafhopper vector for MRFV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify MRFV replication in Dalbulus maidis.
• To determine the dynamics of viral antigen concentration in the vector over time.
• To provide evidence for MRFV multiplication within its insect vector.

Main Methods:

• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to measure MRFV titer.
• Viral antigen concentration was assessed at various time points post-acquisition.
• Serial passage of MRFV through successive leafhopper populations was performed.

Main Results:

• MRFV antigen concentration increased in Dalbulus maidis, peaking at 25 days post-acquisition.
• Significant variations in viral concentration were observed among individual infected leafhoppers.
• Successful serial passage through five leafhopper generations demonstrated sustained infectivity.

Conclusions:

• The study provides robust evidence for the multiplication of MRFV within Dalbulus maidis.
• MRFV replication dynamics in the vector are characterized by a peak concentration followed by a decline.
• These findings enhance our understanding of MRFV epidemiology and vector-virus interactions.