Occurrence and Genomic Characterization of Japanese Iris Necrotic Ring Virus Isolated from Narcissus spp. in Korea

Minseok Kim1,2, Minjoo Yang3, Jean Geung Min3

  • 1School of Applied Biosciences, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea.

Insights

Japanese iris necrotic ring virus (JINRV) was detected in Narcissus plants in Korea. This virus, found in mixed infections, can be mechanically transmitted to other plants.

Area of Science:

  • Plant pathology
  • Virology
  • Molecular biology

Background:

  • Viral diseases significantly impact Narcissus cultivation, affecting bulb quality and trade.
  • Understanding viral pathogens in Narcissus is crucial for effective disease management and quarantine protocols.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and characterize viruses infecting Narcissus plants in Korea.
  • To investigate the prevalence and genetic diversity of Japanese iris necrotic ring virus (JINRV) in Narcissus.
  • To assess the transmission capabilities and infection patterns of JINRV.

Main Methods:

  • Metatranscriptome analysis and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were employed for viral detection.
  • Full genome sequencing of the JINRV isolate SA36 was performed.
  • Sequence analysis and comparative genomics were used to determine genetic relationships.
  • Sap inoculation studies were conducted to assess mechanical transmission.

Main Results:

  • JINRV was detected in 22 out of 75 Narcissus samples, primarily in Shinan, with a regional infection rate of 55.0%.
  • The complete genome of JINRV isolate SA36 was sequenced (4,060 nucleotides) and found to contain five open reading frames.
  • Narcissus-derived JINRV isolates showed high coat protein amino acid identity (98.0-100%) among themselves and varying identity with Iris-derived isolates.
  • JINRV was mechanically transmitted to Cucurbita pepo and exclusively detected in plants with mixed viral infections.

Conclusions:

  • JINRV is a significant viral pathogen affecting Narcissus in Korea, often occurring in complex mixed infections.
  • The genetic data provides insights into JINRV evolution and its relationship with related viruses.
  • Findings support the implementation of stricter quarantine measures for Narcissus bulbs and contribute to improving cultivation practices in Korea.