Rapid Evolution of Maize Streak Virus
Author Information
Author(s): Eric van der Walt, Darren P. Martin, Arvind Varsani, Jane E. Polston, Edward P. Rybicki
Primary Institution: University of Cape Town
Hypothesis
What is the short-term evolution rate of the Maize streak virus (MSV)?
Conclusion
The evolution rates of MSV are similar to those observed for other single-stranded DNA viruses and RNA viruses.
Supporting Evidence
- The evolution rate of MSV was determined to be between 7.4 × 10-4 and 7.9 × 10-4 substitutions per site per year.
- No obvious evidence of positive selection was detected in the virus populations.
- Inter-strand nucleotide substitution imbalances were observed, suggesting adaptive changes.
Takeaway
The Maize streak virus changes quickly over time, just like some other viruses, which helps it survive and adapt.
Methodology
Full genome analysis of virus populations initiated from cloned genomes maintained in plants for up to five years.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to small population sizes affecting mutation fixation rates.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on short-term evolution rates, which may not reflect long-term population-wide rates.
Participant Demographics
Three wild type viruses and three defective artificial chimaeric viruses were used.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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