ANNOUNCEMENTS
This study investigates the prevalence and genetic diversity of Sugarcane streak mosaic virus (SCSMV) in sugarcane samples collected from three major sugarcane-growing regions in Uttar Pradesh, India: Shahjahanpur, Gola Gorakhpur, and Muzaffarnagar. Out of 25 samples analyzed, 21 tested positive for SCSMV, while none showed the presence of Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), corroborating previous findings by Hema et al. (1999) that SCSMV is the primary causative agent of sugarcane mosaic in Asian countries. The infection rate observed in this study was notably high, with over 82% of the samples being SCSMV-positive, reaffirming the widespread nature of this virus in the region as reported by Chatenet et al. (2005). Phylogenetic analysis revealed a 99% genetic similarity among the isolates from Uttar Pradesh, indicating a common ancestry and suggesting that geographical location does not significantly influence the genetic variation of the virus. Notably, isolates from Uttar Pradesh displayed similarities with those from Pakistan, Iran, and the USA, hinting at possible germplasm exchanges and seedling transfers between these countries. Sequence alignment showed that while the N-terminal region exhibited more variation, the core region at the C-terminus was more conserved, consistent with findings by Kasemsin et al. (2016).
This research underscores the critical need for developing effective diagnostic tools and disease management strategies to combat SCSMV. Understanding the genetic diversity and molecular characteristics of the virus can aid in the creation of robust diagnostic methods and targeted disease control measures. The study contributes valuable insights into the molecular epidemiology of SCSMV, which is essential for safeguarding sugarcane production and ensuring the sustainability of this vital agricultural sector in India.
Keywords: Sugarcane streak mosaic virus, Sugarcane mosaic virus, RT-PCR, phylogenetic analysis, Agriculture.
