Modulation of Plant Development and MYB Down Regulation: Both during In Planta Expression of miR159a and in Natural ToLCV Infection

Viral infections result in developmental abnormalities. Symptomatic expression of Tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) in tomato, results in curling of leaves and withering of flowers. These modulations are due to altered host gene expression. Transcription factors (TF) are key elements, which control gene expression. In this study, we observed accumulation of miRNA159a levels, responsible for regulating MYB-TF during ToLCV infection. The MYB transcription factor control gene expression of various components involved in floral, anther and leaf development. During ToLCV infection two-fold accumulation of miR159a was observed leading to lower levels of MYB. Transgenic Nicotiana tabacum expressing pre-miR159a mimics ToLCV infection. This suggests probable role of miR159a driven gene regulatory pathway responsible for appearance of viral symptoms.