Unidad de Biotecnología, Centro de Investigación Científica de Yucatán, A.C., Calle 43 No. 130 x 32 y 34, Colonia Chuburná de Hidalgo, MéridaC.P. 97205, Yucatán, México
*Corresponding author e-mail: Luis Sáenz-Carbonell (vyca@cicy.mx)
Online Published on 26 August, 2024.
Phytoplasmas are prokaryotic pathogens that cause significant economic losses worldwide and result in multiple diseases in various plant species, from ornamental plants to agricultural important crops. They have the ability to infect two kingdoms, surviving within both plant hosts and insects. Phytoplasmas, belonging to the Mollicutes class, possess unique characteristics as lack of cell wall and small genome size with low guanine-cytosine content. Currently, they are still difficult to colture in artificial media, which hinders research efforts, therefore, understanding their genetic characteristics is crucial in gaining insight into their biological and metabolical characteristics. This review highlights the key genetic features of phytoplasmas.
Prokaryote, Pathogens, Plants, Insects, Diseases
