Exploring the Peanut Viromes Across 15 Cultivars in Korea

Int J Mol Sci. 2026 Jan 15;27(2):890. doi: 10.3390/ijms27020890.

Abstract

This study explores the virome of fifteen peanut cultivars in Korea. Through RNA sequencing, 305 viral contigs associated with cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), peanut mottle virus (PeMoV), bean common mosaic virus (BCMV), and brassica yellows virus (BrYV) were identified, with CMV notably prevalent across samples. Evaluation of viral abundance using viral reads and TPM values revealed CMV dominance in reads and PeMoV prominence in normalized values in select samples. Complete genomes of BCMV, PeMoV, BrYV, and CMV segments were assembled, enabling phylogenetic analysis that uncovered genetic relationships among viral isolates. RT-PCR confirmed BCMV, CMV, and PeMoV presence. Genetic diversity within BCMV was evident through single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis, displaying diverse patterns and correlations with viral reads. This study discusses the implications for peanut cultivation, stressing the importance of ongoing research to manage viral diseases. It forms a foundational resource for future investigations into peanut virology, guiding strategies for disease management in peanut crops.

Keywords: Korea; RNA sequencing; complete genomes; peanut cultivars; phylogenetic analysis; single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs); viral abundance; virome analysis.

MeSH terms

  • Arachis* / virology
  • Cucumovirus / genetics
  • Genetic Variation
  • Genome, Viral
  • Phylogeny
  • Plant Diseases / virology
  • Plant Viruses* / classification
  • Plant Viruses* / genetics
  • Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
  • Republic of Korea
  • Virome* / genetics