Comparative analysis of beet western yellows virus detection methods: Development and validation of a novel real-time RT-PCR assay also targeting beet leaf yellowing virus


  • Hellin, P. , Everaert, E. , Demonty, E. , Richet, P. , Muhovski, Y. , De Jonghe, K. , Hautier, L. & Steyer, S. (2026). Comparative analysis of beet western yellows virus detection methods: Development and validation of a novel real-time RT-PCR assay also targeting beet leaf yellowing virus. Journal of Virological Methods, 342: (115352),
Type Journal Article
Year 2026
Title Comparative analysis of beet western yellows virus detection methods: Development and validation of a novel real-time RT-PCR assay also targeting beet leaf yellowing virus
Journal Journal of Virological Methods
Volume 342
Issue 115352
Date January 2026
Endnote keywords Polerovirus, RT-qPCR, Beet yellows, Generic detection, ELISA
Abstract Beet western yellows virus (BWYV – Polerovirus BWYV) is a polerovirus associated with yellowing and stunting symptoms in sugar beet and several other crops. Its close relationship with other beet-infecting poleroviruses, has long complicated accurate diagnosis due to serological cross-reactivity and limited molecular data. To overcome these issues, we developed a novel real-time RT-PCR assay enabling the specific and sensitive detection of BWYV and beet leaf yellowing virus (BLYV – Polerovirus BLYV). The assay was designed from a curated genomic dataset to ensure inclusivity and tested in parallel with validated reference methods, including a semi-generic ELISA and a generic polerovirus RT-PCR. Comprehensive validation following the EPPO PM 7/98(5) standard confirmed the method’s high analytical sensitivity, specificity, repeatability, and reproducibility. The assay proved robust to methodological variations and compatible with multiplex diagnostic workflows. Compared with existing ap- proaches, it offers faster, more reliable detection and eliminates cross-reactivity with non-target poleroviruses. This method provides a valuable tool for accurate BWYV surveillance and supports improved management of beet virus yellows in agricultural and phytosanitary contexts.
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Lien https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0166093426000169?via%3Dihub
Authors Hellin, P., Everaert, E., Demonty, E., Richet, P., Muhovski, Y., De Jonghe, K., Hautier, L., Steyer, S.