Feasibility of meristem culture for management of Banana Streak Virus (BSV) through micropropagation.

摘要

Meristem culture is considered as novel approach of biotechnology in eliminating plant viruses in vitro. However, the spread of Banana streak virus (BSV) through tissue culture seedlings in the field had doubt about the technique. The present study was conducted to check the feasibility of the technology in managing the BSV through meristem culture and in combination with thermotherapy. BSV-infected suckers of two banana cultivars (Grand nine and Ardhapuri) were used for meristem culture along with the respective controls. Hot water treatment was supplemented as a tool to suppress the virus. Meristem buds were treated at different temperatures and time intervals. Buds sustained the maximum temperature of 50 degrees C for 10 min only and were selected for further regeneration after excising meristem from them. Non-treated infested meristems were also inoculated along with healthy meritames on MS medium supplemented with different growth regulators for different stages. The regeneration of BSV-infested meristem was found abnormal and took more time than that of healthy meristems. The hot water-treated suckers took the longest time. The regenerated seedlings subjected to PCR confirmation showed the inability of meristem culture technique in eliminating the virus from the host. The episomal nature of the virus and its genomic integration into the host genome could be the possible reason for the failure of the technology. Proper indexing by ELISA or PCR and regular observation of the explant for certain period of time were found most ideal before selecting the explants for tissue culture. Strict quarantine while international exchange of germplasm was the most ideal procedure to avoid subcontinental movement of the virus through exchange materials.