The Prune dwarf virus (PDV), belonging to the family Bromoviridae, represents a significant pathogen affecting sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) production globally. This study aimed to genetically identify PDV in Uzbekistan and determine its influence on sweet cherry fruit’s biochemical composition. Leaf and fruit samples collected from symptomatic cherry trees occurred in the Piskent and Chirchik districts, Tashkent Region. Molecular identification employed the use of reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with coat protein gene-specific primers. Biochemical analysis of water-soluble vitamins and flavonoids proceeded by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). RT-PCR successfully detected PDV in infected samples, amplifying a 381 bp specific fragment. Chlorosis, leaf deformation, and fruit shrinkage were predominant symptoms. HPLC analysis revealed substantial reductions in biologically active compounds: vitamin B2 decreased by 64%, vitamin B12 by 57%, rutin by 82.3%, and gallic acid by 47%. Overall, water-soluble vitamins and flavonoids declined by 64%, respectively. These results demonstrate that PDV severely compromises sweet cherry fruits’ nutritional quality and antioxidant properties. The findings underscore the necessity for implementation of virus diagnostic measures and certification of virus-free planting material to sustain cherry production in Uzbekistan.
Sweet cherries (P. avium L.), Prune dwarf virus, vitamins, flavonoid, productivity, biologically active substances, Ilarvirus, Bromoviridae
The diagnostic results showed a considerable spread of prune dwarf virus (PDV) symptoms in the sweet cherry (P. avium L.) fruit fields of Uzbekistan. The specific prune dwarf virus (PDV) serum was successful in obtaining and identifying it by molecular-genetic methods