Chapter 13 - Virus-vector interaction and transmission in plants

Abstract

Viruses are unique pathogens of agriculturally important crops. Transmission of plant viruses via insect vectors is an interesting mechanism in the life cycle of viruses and insects as well. Virus-vector interaction develops the understanding of the transmission mechanisms involved. Plant viruses spread horizontally and vertically through insects depending on the transmission mode. Plant viruses interact with their vectors in different ways for their survival and spread. Different proteins in viruses, hosts, and insects are involved in the transmission and acquisition of plant viruses from different sources, although insect proteins are involved in virus transmission but are poorly characterized. Hitherto, insect proteins involved in virus transmission have been poorly characterized. Identification of different proteins and their role involved in molecular mechanisms in virus acquisition and transmission through insects are the key areas in the research gap and recent advances. Among the other proteins, cuticular proteins have been emerged as the vital molecules in plant virus transmission. This chapter will describe the role of insects in the life cycles of viruses and hosts. The interaction of virus-vector-host will also be elaborated through the role of different proteins and molecular mechanisms in this chapter. These understanding and interactions and mechanisms will be helpful to formulate the management strategies for plant viruses in agricultural crops.