Molecular Characterization and Biological Properties of Chickpea Chlorotic Dwarf Virus Infecting Leguminous Crops

Abstract

Chickpea chlorotic dwarf virus (CpCDV) is an economically significant mastrevirus associated with severe yield losses in leguminous crops across several agro-ecological regions. The present study aimed to investigate the molecular characterization and biological properties of CpCDV infecting legume hosts exhibiting symptoms such as chlorotic leaf streaking, stunting, upward leaf curling, and reduced pod formation. Field surveys were conducted in major pulse-growing areas, and symptomatic samples were collected from different leguminous crops. Total DNA was extracted and subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using CpCDV-specific primers targeting the coat protein and replication-associated protein genes. Amplified products were sequenced and analyzed for genetic variability, recombination events, and phylogenetic relationships with global CpCDV isolates. Sequence analysis revealed considerable nucleotide diversity among isolates, suggesting the presence of distinct viral variants circulating in legume-growing regions. Phylogenetic reconstruction grouped the isolates within established mastrevirus clades, indicating evolutionary divergence and possible host adaptation. Biological indexing studies conducted through sap inoculation and vector-mediated transmission confirmed the infectivity and symptom expression of the virus in susceptible host plants. The study also highlighted differences in symptom severity among host species, indicating variability in host–virus interactions. The integration of molecular and biological data provided a comprehensive understanding of CpCDV diversity and pathogenic behavior. These findings are essential for improving diagnostic accuracy, developing resistant cultivars, and designing effective management strategies to reduce the impact of CpCDV on legume production systems. This research contributes valuable insights into the epidemiology and evolution of mastreviruses affecting economically important pulse crops.