Virus-Vector Interactions Mediating Nonpersistent and Semipersistent Transmission of Plant Viruses

Most plant viruses are absolutely dependent on a vector for plant-to-plant spread. Although a number of different types of organisms are vectors for different plant viruses, phloem-feeding Hemipterans are the most common and transmit the great majority of plant viruses. The complex and specific interactions between Hemipteran vectors and the viruses they transmit have been studied intensely, and two general strategies, the capsid and helper strategies, are recognized. Both strategies are found for plant viruses that are transmitted by aphids in a nonpersistent manner. Evidence suggests that these strategies are found also for viruses transmitted in a semipersistent manner. Recent applications of molecular and cell biology techniques have helped to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the vector transmission of several plant viruses. This review examines the fundamental contributions and recent developments in this area.