Biological and molecular characterization of leek yellow stripe virus (LYSV) in Canakkale province

In this study, a survey was conducted in Canakkale Province and subprovince in leek plants that shows Leek yellow stripe virus-like symptoms in year 2009-2010. A total of 77 samples were collected from these areas and tested by DAS-ELISA and RT-PCR for the presence of LYSV. As a result of the DAS-ELISA and RT-PCR analysis 51 out of 77 samples were found infected with LYSV. The sap of the infected plant samples were inoculated into LYSV sensitive indicator plants to determine the biological characteristics. Isolates obtained as the pure isolates were grouped based on biological characteristics and locations where they were isolated. The coat protein genes of some isolates representing each group were cloned and sequenced. Isolates were further characterized here and the sequences obtained from LYSV isolates of Canakkale were compared with known sequences from other parts of the world to determine the genetic differences and evolutionary relationships among LYSV isolates from Canakkale and the other parts of the world. Comparison of CP genes revealed that CP gene of LYSV isolates from Canakkale Province and subprovince showed 97-98 % and isolates with the world 77-95 % identity in their nucleotide sequences, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis of the CP gene sequences showed that LYSV isolates from Canakkale provinces and subprovinces different level of genetic relationship with LYSV isolates from world. In this case the method isolates proteins were analyzed by Western blot analysis. Western blot analysis studies specific to all isolates were obtained from 34 kDa coat protein.