Integrative multi-omics approach identified emerging viral threat in Theobroma cacao plants.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Theobroma cacao seeds are the source of chocolate and other valuable products. Pathogens can damage cocoa beans, reducing yield and quality. This study examined viruses linked to chlorosis and leaf deformation in cocoa plants in Bahia, Brazil, using an integrative approach.

Results

Macroscopic and microscopic analysis of symptomatic T. cacao leaves revealed chlorosis and histological alterations consistent with viral infection, including cell and nuclear hypertrophy. Deep sequencing of small RNA (sRNA) from these tissues identified virus-derived sRNA (vsiRNAs) profile, which suggests that viral transcripts activate the antiviral RNA interference pathways. The vsiRNAs were used to assemble two viral sequences: one related to geminivirids and the other resembling a

SUBMITTER: Fonseca PLC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12542102 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature