Research on TOBRFV Infection in Summer Tomato Seed Production in the Wafangdian Area

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the infection status of Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (TOBRFV) in tomato seed breeding in Wafangdian area during early and late summer. By comparing infection rates and cycle threshold (Ct) values from early and late summer seed samples, we found a significant increase in infection rates and lower Ct values at the end of the growing season. The study revealed that seeds harvested at the end of summer are at a higher risk of carrying TOBRFV, which could impact seed quality and facilitate virus spread in subsequent plantings. The findings underscore the importance of monitoring and implementing control measures targeted at the end of the growing season to mitigate the risk of TOBRFV infection in tomato seeds. The results also highlight the need for further research into the factors contributing to the increased virus concentration and infection rates over the growing season.