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Exploring the Mycovirus Universe: Identification, Diversity, and Biotechnological Applications

Summary

This research explores viruses that infect fungi (mycoviruses) and their potential use in controlling harmful fungal diseases that affect crops. Scientists have discovered that some of these viruses can weaken fungi that damage plants, offering a natural alternative to chemical pesticides. Impact on everyday life: – Could help protect food crops from fungal diseases without using harmful chemicals – May lead to more sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices – Could reduce crop losses and lower food costs – Offers potential solutions for protecting forests and ornamental plants from fungal diseases – Could improve food security by providing new tools to fight plant diseases

Background

Viruses that infect fungi, known as mycoviruses, are characterized by the lack of an extracellular phase. Recent advances in nucleic acid sequencing technologies have led to a significant increase in identified fungi-infecting viral species, with growing interest in their potential as fungal biocontrol agents.

Objective

To perform a comprehensive review of available mycovirus data to explore their molecular features, diversity, host range, and potential biotechnological applications, particularly as biocontrol agents.

Results

The study identified 267 mycovirus species, with 189 (70.78%) accepted by ICTV. Most mycoviruses have dsRNA genomes (62%), followed by +ssRNA (30%), -ssRNA (16%), and ssDNA (2%). The Botourmiaviridae family was most common, representing 14% of species. Of 79 fungal host species reported, 50 are phytopathogenic. High-throughput sequencing has driven a sharp increase in mycovirus identification, with ~67% of all species described in the last eight years.

Conclusion

The review demonstrates significant recent progress in mycovirus discovery and characterization, particularly through advanced sequencing technologies. While some mycoviruses show promise as biocontrol agents by inducing hypovirulence in pathogenic fungi, others can increase host virulence. Understanding mycovirus diversity and host interactions is crucial for developing effective biological control strategies in agriculture.
  • Published in:Journal of Fungi,
  • Study Type:Review,
  • Source: 10.3390/jof9030361
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