Work

Metabolomic Analysis of Cassava Cultivars in Response to Sri Lankan Cassava Mosaic Virus Infection by Viruliferous Whiteflies

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Cassava mosaic disease, caused by Cassava mosaic begomoviruses in the family Geminiviridae, poses a major threat to cassava production, with Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus (SLCMV) being the dominant strain in Southeast Asia. Transmitted via infected propagative stems and whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci), SLCMV's impact on cassava metabolite dynamics remains poorly understood. This study investigated metabolite profile changes in resistant, tolerant, and susceptible cassava cultivars at 1, 3, and 7 days after inoculation by viruliferous whiteflies. Distinct metabolite patterns were observed among cultivars, with several pathways linked to plant defense identified, including flavonoid biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and purine metabolism. Secondary metabolite pathways, such as the energy-signaling SnRK1/AMPK-liked proteins, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, and starch and sucrose metabolism, were also implicated. The results provide insights into metabolite-mediated defense mechanisms during early and late infection, enhancing understanding of cassava's responses to SLCMV inoculation after exposure to viruliferous whitefly infestation. This study supports the development of SLCMV-resistant cassava cultivars.

Source: The Plant Pathology Journal

DOI: 10.5423/ppj.oa.06.2025.0081

Authors: Somruthai Chaowongdee, Nattachai Vannatim, Nuannapa Hemniam, Panutchaya Pichaiyotinkul, Atchara Paemanee, Wanwisa Siriwan

Institutions: Kasetsart University, National Science and Technology Development Agency, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology

Language: English

Topic: Plant Virus Research Studies

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $850