Effect of tiazofurin on tomato plants infected with tomato spotted wilt virus

Tiazofurin (2-beta-D-ribofuranosylthiazole-4-carboxamide) was examined for its activity against tomato-spotted wilt virus (TSWV) in tomato plants. Solutions containing 50, 100, 200, 400 and 800 mg/l of the drug were sprayed onto the leaves. The results showed that 100 and 200 mg/l were the most efficient concentrations to suppress TSWV infection, thereby delaying the appearance of systemic symptoms. The drug was more effective in controlling TSWV infection when applied after than before virus inoculation. The results suggest that tiazofurin can be used as an efficient antiviral drug in the treatment of TSWV-infected tomato plants.