Tobamovirus Isolation and RNA Extraction

The tobamoviruses produce rigid, rod-shaped particles, with dimensions of approx 300 � 18 nm, and form one of the most extensively studied groups of plant viruses (1 ). Members of the group infect a wide range of angiosperms, and individual members frequently have wide experimental host ranges. Tobamoviruses cause diseases in tobacco, tomato, pepper, orchid, cucumber, melon, bean, and crucifer plants. The characteristic symptoms of disease are stunting and chlorotic mosaics, mottles, or ringspots. These symptoms are often accompanied by distortion of leaves and fruits.