Identification and molecular characterization of a novel circular single-stranded DNA virus associated with yerba mate in Argentina

Arch Virol. 2018 Oct;163(10):2811-2815. doi: 10.1007/s00705-018-3910-y. Epub 2018 Jun 6.

Abstract

A single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) virus was detected in Yerba mate samples showing chlorotic linear patterns, chlorotic rings and vein yellowing. The full-genome sequences of six different isolates of this ssDNA circular virus were obtained, which share > 99% sequence identity with each other. The newly identified virus has been tentatively named as yerba mate-associated circular DNA virus (YMaCV). The 2707 nt-long viral genome has two and three open reading frame on its complementary and virion-sense strands, respectively. The coat protein is more similar to that of mastreviruses (44% identity), whereas the replication-associated protein of YMaCV is more similar (49% identity) to that encoded by a recently described, unclassified ssDNA virus isolated on trees in Brazil. This is the first report of a circular DNA virus associated with yerba mate. Its unique genome organization and phylogenetic relationships indicates that YMaCV represents a distinct evolutionary lineage within the ssDNA viruses and therefore this virus should be classified as a member of a new species within an unassigned genus or family.

MeSH terms

  • Argentina
  • Base Sequence
  • Capsid Proteins / genetics
  • DNA Viruses / classification*
  • DNA Viruses / genetics
  • DNA Viruses / isolation & purification*
  • DNA, Circular / genetics
  • DNA, Single-Stranded / genetics*
  • DNA, Viral / genetics*
  • Genome, Viral / genetics*
  • Ilex paraguariensis / virology*
  • Open Reading Frames / genetics
  • Sequence Analysis, DNA

Substances

  • Capsid Proteins
  • DNA, Circular
  • DNA, Single-Stranded
  • DNA, Viral