Role of S-adenosyl-L-methionine Synthase in Aphid Attraction

Plant viruses are transmitted by insect vectors, like aphids. Aphids use a needle-like stylet to feed from plant cells and virus particles can attach to aphid stylets when aphids feed on virus-infected plants, facilitating virus transmission. Viruses can manipulate host plant phenotypes to enhance transmission from plant to plant. Previous work in our lab has demonstrated that the potyvirus turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) modulates plant ethylene signaling and that aphids are more attracted to virus-infected plants. Recently, we also found that potyviruses induce the expression of Terpene Synthase 1 to increase aphid attraction to virus-infected plants. However, the specific mechanisms in which potyviruses modulate ethylene signaling and volatile biosynthesis is still not well understood. We hypothesized that S-adenosyl-L-methionine Synthase (SAMS), a precursor of the ethylene pathway, mediates increased aphid attraction to potyvirus-infected plants through changes in plant volatiles. To determine the role of SAMS in aphid attraction to virus-infected plants, I transiently overexpressed SAMS in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves and conducted aphid choice tests against a control. I also performed RT-qPCR on volatile related genes to further understand the role of SAMS in volatile mediated attraction of aphid vectors.

My experience as a BTI summer intern has been incredibly positive and enriching. The supportive community at Cornell and BTI offered me invaluable advice for grad school. My mentor was also exceptionally helpful, always willing to assist with my research and answer any questions that I had. One of my primary goals was to learn new molecular techniques applicable to other research fields, and I feel that I have successfully achieved this thanks to the Casteel Lab. One of the most valuable lessons I learned is that science is not always a straightforward path; experiments do not always yield immediate success. Although I was aware of this, experiencing it firsthand was both challenging and enlightening, and I feel more prepared for grad school because of it. My internship at BTI has been a transformative experience, equipping me with both the skills and the resilience needed for a career in research.