Serologische Untersuchungen an Mutanten des Tabakmosaikvirus

Abstract

A series of sequential mutants from TMV strain vulgare has been serologically investigated using the absorption technique. The ultimate members of this series were selected as producing symptoms similar to TMV strains of the dahlemense group. Each mutation was accompanied by a small alteration of the antigenic properties, which was retained in the subsequent mutants. The end strain of the series therefore possessed the minute but clearly demonstrable antigenic changes of the preceeding mutants, and in exchange had lost some antigenic components of the original strain. However, the group specificity remained unaltered. Although the symptomatic properties approach those of the dahlemense group, no parallel approach of the serological characteristics was observed.