Why Development of Nation’s First Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus Clone Is a Big Deal

New technology from Texas A&M AgriLife Research could be a major step to bring disease-resistant peppers and tomatoes to grower fields. A research team led by Jeanmarie Verchot, Professor in the Texas A&M Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, developed the nation’s first infectious clone of the tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV), paving the way for plant scientists to more efficiently research disease-resistant genetics in tomatoes, peppers and other susceptible crops.

In the scientific paper, “A Novel Approach to Engineering Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus Infectious Clones by Disarming Key Nodes in Anti-Viral Defenses,” recently published in Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions by the American Phytopathological Society, the researchers revealed the discovery that U.S. scientists have sought for decades.

With this development, Verchot and her team can now produce an unlimited amount of virus, more efficiently inoculate trial plants, and help pepper breeders move much faster in identifying superior, virus-resistant genetics.

“Crop producers are very familiar with this virus, and we are excited that this discovery opens the door for impactful solutions to a major production challenge for them,” Verchot says. “By making technology tools that breeders can use to speed new variety development, we hope to see a simple ripple-effect where peppers, tomatoes and other produce are more abundant and cost less in grocery stores nationally.”

TSWV is transmitted by insects called thrips, which spread across fields and migrate into growing areas by floating in regional wind systems. Verchot says the virus negatively impacts more than 1,000 produce and ornamental plant varieties.

Infected plants have reduced yields and damages can make crops unmarketable and decrease grower income. Limited produce and higher input costs ultimately mean higher prices for the end consumer.

USDA’s Risk Avoidance and Mitigation Program estimates TSWV causes $100 million in crop damage each year in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina alone.

For more, continue reading at agrilifetoday.tamu.edu.