Serological Characterization of Alfalfa Mosaic Virus in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) in Some Regions of Iran

A survey was carried out in five provinces of Iran (Kerman, Sistan and Baluchestan, Hormozgan, Khorasan and Yazd) for the presence of Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) serotypes in alfalfa during 2002 to 2003. The number of samples collected was 250, representing the diversity and geographical distribution of AMV in these areas. Diagnosis was carried out using polyclonal (PAbs) and monoclonal (MAbs) antibodies. A total of 110 symptomatic leaf samples gave a positive reaction in ELISA with polyclonal antibodies. Twelve out of 20 MAbs reacted with all samples tested and were considered as non-differentiating MAbs. Only the MAbs-12, 13, 15, 21, 22 and 24 gave a clear differential reaction and were used for identifying AMV serotypes. Two MAbs (1 and 2) did not react with AMV positive samples. Serological relatedness among AMV samples was studied by indicating the existence of six serotypes of AMV strains in the surveyed areas