Insect cuticular proteins and their role in transmission of phytoviruses

Publication date: December 2018Source: Current Opinion in Virology, Volume 33Author(s): Maëlle Deshoux, Baptiste Monsion, Marilyne UzestMany viruses of agricultural importance are transmitted to host plants via insect vectors. Characterizing virus–vector interactions at the molecular level is essential if we are to fully understand the transmission mechanisms involved and develop new strategies to control viral spread. Hitherto, insect proteins involved in virus transmission have been characterized only poorly. Recent advances in this topic, however, have significantly filled this knowledge gap. Among the vector molecules identified, cuticular proteins have emerged as key molecules for plant virus transmission, regardless of transmission mode or vector considered. Here, we review recent evidence highlighting that the CPR family, and particularly RR-1 proteins, undoubtedly deserves special attention.Graphical abstract

Source: Current Opinion in Virology - September 21, 2018 Category: Virology Source Type: research