Molecular characterization of a new tymovirus from Diascia ornamental plants

Two tymoviruses were identified in plants of Diascia × hybrida ‘Sun Chimes™ Coral’ that exhibited chlorotic mottling and reduced growth. A strain of Nemesia ring necrosis virus (NeRNV) designated NeRNV-WA was detected in symptomatic plants; the deduced amino acid sequence is virtually identical to that of the previously reported NeRNV-Nf from Nemesia fruticosa. Sequence analysis also revealed the presence of a new tymovirus, and the entire genomic sequence of this virus was determined. The genome of 6,290 nucleotides was organized into three potential open reading frames (ORFs) typical of viruses in the genus Tymovirus. Based on sequence identity to tymovirus sequences, ORFs I to III encoded the replicase, movement protein and coat protein, respectively. Amino acid sequence identities to those of NeRNV-Nf were 84.8, 50.3 and 94.8%, respectively. The 5′-untranslated region could potentially form four hairpin structures. Secondary structure analysis of the 3′-terminus showed that the RNA can form a transfer-RNA-like structure that has an anticodon specific for histidine. Only 77.9% nucleotide identity was found when complete genomic sequences of this tymovirus from diascia and NeRNV-Nf were compared. The name Diascia yellow mottle virus (DiaYMV) is proposed for this new tymovirus.