This study investigated the distribution, molecular identification, and genetic analysis of Potato leafroll virus (PLRV) in the Yukari-Chirchik District of Tashkent Region, Uzbekistan, during 2022–2024. Field surveys revealed characteristic PLRV symptoms, including leaf chlorosis, upward rolling, and interveinal yellowing in potato cultivars Arizona, Zarzara, Gala, and Santa. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) successfully amplified a 726 bp fragment of the coat protein (CP) gene. A novel isolate designated ‘Potato leafroll M-1’ attained successful identification and depositing in the NCBI GenBank (accession number PP981686). Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated 99.58% genetic similarity with the African isolate JEO11-34 and close relationships with German and Canadian strains. Several detected single nucleotide polymorphisms in the CP gene promoter region indicated evolutionary divergence. Reservoir host analysis using real-time PCR identified PLRV in Datura stramonium, Solanum nigrum, Solanum lycopersicum, Physalis floridana, and Dolichos lablab, confirming these species as potential virus reservoirs. This research provides the first molecular evidence of PLRV occurrence in Uzbekistan and validates RT-PCR as an efficient diagnostic tool for early virus detection. The findings establish a scientific foundation for developing virus-resistant potato cultivars and managing reservoir hosts to reduce viral spread.
Potato (S. tuberosum L.), potato leafroll virus (PLRV), isolate, RT-PCR, coat protein (CP) gene, Potato leafroll M-1, primer design, phylogenetic analysis
The spread of potato (S. tuberosum L.) leafroll virus (PLRV) required monitoring. Through molecular genetic analysis, a new isolate designated as ‘Potato leafroll M-1’ succeeded in being deposited in the NCBI GenBank with the accession number PP981686.