Molecular Classification of a Phytoplasma Associated with Willow Yellow Disease

Abstract:

Abstract：【Objective】Willow Yellow is a plant disease caused by phytoplasma. We identified the taxonomic status of Willow Yellow phytoplasma(WY). 【Methods】We used specific conservative primers amplified 16S rDNA and ribosomal proteins gene(rp)gene. Obtained sequences were then analyzed and homology trees were constructed. The nested - PCR products were also analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). 【Results】We obtained 16S rDNA of 1246 bp and rp gene of 1212 bp, and sequence analysis showed a high identity with members of the 16SrI-C group phytoplasmas, all above 99. 0%, and had the highest identity with Wheat Blue Dwarf phytoplasmas, 99.8 % (16S rDNA) and 99.6 % (rp) respectively, RFLP pattern are also the same as 16SrI-C phytoplsama.【Conclusion】Willow yellow phytoplasma is a member of 16SrI-C.