Watermelon production in the southeastern U.S. is subject to severe crop losses due to several viruses, including squash vein yellowing virus (SqVYV). Gene expression analysis of a resistant breeding line by the Kousik group at the U.S. Vegetable Laboratory Charleston SC, indicated potential involvement of a variety of defensive responses including inhibition of virus movement, degradation of the invading virus, and strengthening of host cell structure. These findings can assist further functional studies and the development of SqVYV-resistant watermelon cultivars.
For further reading:
Rahul Kumar, Bisisha Chanda, Scott Adkins and Chandrasekar S. Kousik
Frontiers in Plant Science, Volume 15, August 1 2024
DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1426647
