Plant infection by a virus is a complex process influenced by virus-encoded factors and host components that support replication and movement. Critical factors for a successful infection are the movement proteins (MPs) that modify the size exclusion limit of plasmodesmata during the cell-to-cell movement. Pectin methylesterases (PMEs) was shown to interact in vitro with the MP of different viruses and this interaction was proposed to be necessary for Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) spreading as well as for its systemic movement through the host vasculature. Here we report that the ectopic expression of a PME inhibitor from Actinidia chinensis in Nicotiana tabacum significantly delays the TMV cell-to-cell and systemic spreading. A reduced susceptibility against Turnip vein clearing virus was also observed in Arabidopsis plants overexpressing a PME inhibitor from Arabidopsis. Overall, our results strongly support the important roles of PMEs in viral movement and indicate PME inhibitors as a useful tool to limit virus infection.

PECTIN METHYLESTERASE INHIBITORS LIMIT TOBAMOVIRUS SPREADING IN TOBACCO AND ARABIDOPSIS

RAIOLA, ALESSANDRO;
2013

Abstract

Plant infection by a virus is a complex process influenced by virus-encoded factors and host components that support replication and movement. Critical factors for a successful infection are the movement proteins (MPs) that modify the size exclusion limit of plasmodesmata during the cell-to-cell movement. Pectin methylesterases (PMEs) was shown to interact in vitro with the MP of different viruses and this interaction was proposed to be necessary for Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) spreading as well as for its systemic movement through the host vasculature. Here we report that the ectopic expression of a PME inhibitor from Actinidia chinensis in Nicotiana tabacum significantly delays the TMV cell-to-cell and systemic spreading. A reduced susceptibility against Turnip vein clearing virus was also observed in Arabidopsis plants overexpressing a PME inhibitor from Arabidopsis. Overall, our results strongly support the important roles of PMEs in viral movement and indicate PME inhibitors as a useful tool to limit virus infection.
2013
Atti del Convegno S.I.B.V., Fifth Congress
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11577/2681865
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