Carica papaya MicroRNAs Are Responsive to Papaya meleira virus Infection
Figure 1
Symptoms of PMeV infection in Carica papaya.
As opposed to most viruses, PMeV appears to reside primarily in lactifers, where it modifies potassium levels and osmotic balance, leading to rupture of cells and exudation of fluid and translucent latex from the fruits (A) and young leaves. The latex oxidises after atmospheric exposure, resulting in small necrotic lesions on the edges of young leaves (B) and a sticky latex on the fruits (C) that makes them unacceptable for consumption.