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Co-infection of Four Novel Mycoviruses from Three Lineages Confers Hypovirulence on Phytopathogenic Fungus Ustilaginoidea virens

Summary

This research discovered four new viruses that can infect and weaken a harmful fungus that causes rice false smut disease. One virus in particular, called UvRV16, shows promise as a natural and environmentally friendly way to control this devastating rice disease. The findings are significant for developing sustainable agricultural practices. Impacts on everyday life: • Could lead to reduced use of chemical fungicides in rice farming • May help improve rice crop yields and food security • Demonstrates potential for natural disease control methods in agriculture • Could result in safer rice products with fewer fungal toxins • Provides an environmentally friendly approach to crop protection

Background

Rice false smut caused by Ustilaginoidea virens has become one of the most important diseases of rice. Mycoviruses are viruses that can infect fungi with the potential to control fungal diseases. However, little is known about the biocontrol role of hypoviruses in U. virens.

Objective

To investigate the role of four novel mycoviruses co-infecting U. virens strain Uv325 and determine their effects on fungal virulence and potential for biocontrol of rice false smut disease.

Results

The study revealed that U. virens strain Uv325 was co-infected by four novel mycoviruses: UvRV16, UvBV8, UvBV9, and UvNV13. The strain showed slower growth rates, reduced conidial yield, and attenuated pigmentation. UvRV16 was identified as the major factor responsible for the hypovirulent phenotype and could prevent U. virens from accumulating mycotoxins, thereby weakening inhibitory effects on rice seed germination and seedling growth. UvRV16 was found to disrupt the antiviral response of U. virens by suppressing transcriptional expression of multiple genes involved in autophagy and RNA silencing.

Conclusion

The study identified UvRV16 as a novel mycovirus that confers hypovirulence to U. virens and demonstrates potential as a biocontrol agent for rice false smut disease. The findings provide new insights into virus-host interactions and biological control strategies for this important rice pathogen.
  • Published in:Rice,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.1186/s12284-024-00721-z
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