Inhibitory activity of surfactants and polyelectrolytes against TMV [tobacco mosaic virus] infection

Various kinds of surfactants, polyanions and polycations were tested for their inhibitory activities against TMV infection on tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum L. cvs. Xanthi-nc and Bright Yellow). Chemicals were applied on Xanthi-nc before TMV inoculation. Among surfactants tested, α-olefine sulfonate (AOS) showed high activity without causing phytotoxicity. Polyanions other than sodium alginate and sodium polyacrylate (SPA) were less effective. Among polycations tested, poly (2-methacryloxyethyl trimethylammonium chloride) (MEOA·TMC) showed the highest activity without causing phytotoxicity. MOEA·TMC showed higher inhibitory activity against TMV infection on Bright Yellow through infested soil. It was suggested that cationic quaternary ammonium polymers had excellent properties as antiviral substances.