In my laboratory we are engaged in identifying the molecular basis by which
the mastreviruses, in particular
Maize Streak Virus (MSV)and
Bean
Yellow Dwarf Virus (BeYDV), interact with, and infect, their cereal
or dicot hosts. The viruses have a
small genome
and have evolved sophisticated mechanisms for regulating the production
of multifunctional viral proteins from a limited genome coding capacity.
Nevertheless, the virus is reliant on the host machinery to accomplish
its infection cycle, modifying the host to create an environment suitable
for viral DNA replication and transcription as well as for inter-and intracellular
transport of its genome. Our current researched is aimed at gaining an
in depth understanding of the mechanisms by which the virus modifies host
DNA replication and transcription, thereby achieving insights into basic
host cell functions. Movement of the virus within and between cells is
also under investigation. It is anticipated that an understanding of these
processes will facilitate the introduction of plants with durable resistance
to these geminiviruses. Our studies necessitate the use of a wide range
of technologies, and when appropriate intra- and inter-institute collaborations
are established.
