In vitro elimination of Black raspberry necrosis virus from black raspberry (Rubus occidentalis) – Short Communication

Abstract

Black raspberry necrosis virus (BRNV) is one of the most important viral pathogens of Rubus spp. In this study, a procedure combining in vitro culture and heat therapy on axillary buds of Rubusoccidentalis was developed to eliminate BRNV from infected plants. Axillary buds were grown aseptically at 4-h alternating periods of 29°C and 38°C with 14-h day length for 1–5 weeks. Shoots induced after thermotherapy were tested for the viruses by RT-PCR. BRNV was not detected in any shoots indicating that BRNV was heat labile. BRNV-free shoots were rooted in vitro and acclimatized in greenhouse. Regenerated plants remained virus-free after 2-month acclimatization, 3-month dormancy and 5-month growth periods.