Infection of tobacco protoplasts with liposome-encapsulated potyviral RNA

Abstract

The RNA of the potyvirus, tobacco vein mottling virus (TVMV), was encapsulated in reverse-phase evaporation vesicle liposomes containing phosphatidylserine and cholesterol. The liposomes were used to inoculate tobacco mesophyll protoplasts. Analysis of extracts of protoplasts, by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), hybridization with labeled cDNA, electron microscopy and infectivity assays, indicated that significant multiplication of the virus had occurred after incubation of the protoplasts for 2–3 days. It was estimated that approx. 15% of the protoplasts had become infected.