ABSTRACT
Use of double stranded RNA analysis (ds-RNA) in virus detection in bean seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Paulina Sepúlveda R.1 y Luis López M.
 
ds-RNA analysis was used to detect virus infection in Coscorrón-INIA bean seeds obtained from the field and greenhouse. The test was performed on pregerminated seeds (groups of 20, 30 and 40 seeds; field material) and different proportions of infected seeds (greenhouse material). ELlSA test and symptomathology were used as control methodologies. A characteristic banding pattern similar to that of the Potyvirus group was obtained from seeds from infected plants (field and greenhouse). As BCMV is the only Potyvirus that is seed transmitted in beans, it was assumed that bean seeds were infected with this virus. The results were validated by ELlSA test and symptomathology observed in the plants. Banding pattern was more frequently observed in samples containing 40 seeds than 30 or 20. The present study establishes the possibility to use dsRNA analysis as a methodology for detecting virus in bean seeds.
Keywords: virus, BCMV, virus detection, ds-RNA analysis, electrophoresis.
1 Centro Regional de Investigación La Platina (INIA), Casilla 439, Correo 3, Santiago, Chile.