Evaluation of Rz2 Gene Expression in Sugar Beet Hybrids Infected with Beet Necrotic Yellow Vein Virus

Sugar beet hybrids are essential in modern agriculture due to their superior yields, disease resistance, and adaptability. This study investigates the role of the Rz2 gene in conferring resistance to beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) in 14 sugar beet hybrids cultivated in Kazakhstan, including local and European varieties. The Rz2 gene, encoding a CC-NB-LRR protein, is a known resistance factor against BNYVV. Using RT-qPCR, we assessed Rz2 expression and detected BNYVV in bait plants inoculated with virus-infested soil. Our findings identified two highly resistant varieties: the Kazakh cultivar 'Abulhair' and the French line 22b5006. Additionally, the Kazakh cultivar 'Pamyati Abugalieva' and the French hybrid 'Bunker' exhibited increased resistance, suggesting involvement of other resistance loci. Notably, the Danish hybrid 'Alando', despite resistance to rhizomania, did not effectively resist BNYVV, highlighting possible evasion of its genetic factors by local virus strains. Our results emphasize the importance of Rz2 in resistance breeding programs and advocate for further research on additional resistance genes and the genetic variability of BNYVV in Kazakhstan. This work pioneers the molecular evaluation of BNYVV resistance in sugar beet in Kazakhstan, contributing to sustainable disease management and improved sugar beet production.