Histological and cytological changes due to the infection with Sweetpotato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV)

摘要

Microscopic investigations of sweetpotato leaves of healthy and Sweetpotato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV)infected plants, revealed several morphological and cytological changes due to the viral infection. The morphological changes, obtained through the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a clear reduction in number and size of stomata and pearl glands. However, investigating the leaf structure using the light microscope showed several histopathic changes due to the virus infection. The midrib dimensions as well as the palisade tissue thickness and consequently the blade thickness were reduced. On the contrary, the thickness of the spongy tissue was slightly increased. Also, several cytopathic alterations were found, due to SPFMV infection, when ultra-thin sections were examined by transmission electron microscope (TEM). The cytoplasm of the infected leaves contained virus particles and its specific inclusion bodies as well. Different types of inclusions Such as pinwheel, scrolls and laminated inclusions were noticed in the cytoplasm. Degenerated chloroplasts were also observed as a result of infection.