Serological Characterization of Alfalfa Mosaic Virus in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) in Some Regions of Iran

A survey was carried out in five provinces of Iran (Kerman, Sistan and Baluchestan, Hormozgan, Khorasan and Yazd) for the presence of Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) sero-types in alfalfa during ۲۰۰۲ to ۲۰۰۳. The number of samples collected was ۲۵۰, represent-ing the diversity and geographical distribution of AMV in these areas. Diagnosis was car-ried out using polyclonal (PAbs) and monoclonal (MAbs) antibodies. A total of ۱۱۰ symp-tomatic leaf samples gave a positive reaction in ELISA with polyclonal antibodies. Twelve out of ۲۰ MAbs reacted with all samples tested and were considered as non-differentiating MAbs. Only the MAbs-۱۲, ۱۳, ۱۵, ۲۱, ۲۲ and ۲۴ gave a clear differential reaction and were used for identifying AMV serotypes. Two MAbs (۱ and ۲) did not react with AMV posi-tive samples. Serological relatedness among AMV samples was studied by indicating the existence of six serotypes of AMV strains in the surveyed areas.

Keywords:

AMV , Monoclonal antibodies , Serotype , Strain