Biotechnological aspects of the molecular diagnosis of cereal crop viruses

The annual decline in cereal crop yields across many regions of the world due to pathogens such as Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV), Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV), and Soil-borne Cereal Mosaic Virus (SBCMV) underscores the importance of studying their spread and control. The aim of this study was to identify patterns in the distribution of viral infections affecting cereal crops in Ukraine and Azerbaijan. The research utilised reverse transcription followed by polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) to detect viruses in cereal crop samples. Results revealed a high infection rate in both countries (51.1% in Ukraine and approximately 51% in Azerbaijan), with BYDV being the dominant virus. Regional differences were identified: in Ukraine’s forest-steppe zone, BYDV was most prevalent (41.5%), while in the steppe zone, WSMV was more frequently detected (25.9%). In Azerbaijan, BYDV prevalence was lower (≤18.7%), but the frequency of SBCMV was higher (up to 20.4%). Co-infections were found in 26.1% of infected samples in Ukraine and 18.9% in Azerbaijan, with 23.7% of asymptomatic plants in Ukraine and 18.5% in Azerbaijan testing positive for viral material. The LAMP method proved effective for rapid field diagnostics, demonstrating 100% specificity and over 82% sensitivity. The findings highlighted the need for regionally adapted strategies to control viral diseases in cereal crops. The practical value of this work lies in the development of recommendations for improving plant monitoring and protection systems, taking local conditions into account, thereby contributing to increased yields and food security in the region