A team of scientists at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) found that a plant growth promoting rhizobacteria called Bacillus amyloliquefaciens can be used to fight Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV) in cotton crop.
The formulation, prepared in buttermilk, was tested against the plant virus and was found effective. The use of buttermilk for its antimicrobial activity in humans and plants has been a traditional practice.
Many milk proteins are known to have shown antiviral activity, by inhibiting reverse transcriptase enzyme of viruses. In this new study, buttermilk base alone could reduce virus concentration but was more effective when used in combination with Bacillus formulations.
According to the team, more studies are to be done to develop formulation into a user-friendly product. There is also a need to test it in other cotton growing areas in the country.