Physiological and molecular interactions of cotton leafroll dwarf virus with the host

Authors: ESCALANTE, CESAR - Auburn University; Balkcom, Kipling; JACOBSON, ALANA - Auburn University; CONNER, KASSIE - Auburn University

Submitted to: National Cotton Council Beltwide Cotton Conference
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/4/2022
Publication Date: 6/25/2023
Citation: Escalante, C., Balkcom, K.S., Jacobson, A., Conner, K. 2023. Physiological and molecular interactions of cotton leafroll dwarf virus with the host [abstract]. In Proceedings: 2023 Beltwide Cotton Conference. New Orleans, LA. January 10-12, 2023. 741.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Cotton leafroll dwarf virus (CLRDV) belongs to the genus Polerovirus in the family Solemoviridae. CLRDV is transmitted by aphids (Aphis gossypii). This virus was recently reported in the United States and for that reason it represents a major threat to the cotton industry of the country. Experimental plots were set up in three Alabama Agriculture Experiment stations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the virus titer of CLRDV throughout different phenological stages of cotton during the 2022 growing season. Absolute virus titer was determined by RT-qPCR. A correlation of virus titer versus plant physiological traits such as photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, and chlorophyll content will be presented. Furthermore, morphological aspects including plant high, and symptomatology will be discussed. This information will be useful to improve molecular and serological detection methods. In addition, the physiological and molecular data obtained in this study will help to understand the effect that CLRDV has on the physiology and morphology of the cotton host. Such information can be used in the development of sustainable management programs for mitigating possible negative effects caused by CLRDV in cotton.