Maize streak virus

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Maize streak virus (MSV) is an insect-transmitted maize pathogen of the family Geminiviridae that is endemic in sub-Saharan Africa. It is transmitted by an African leafhopper, Cicadulina mbila Naudé, and can sporadically cause epiphytotics that in certain years can destroy 100% of a farmer's maize crop. The development of conventionally resistant varieties has been a priority since the 1950s in Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa and elsewhere, with a good deal of success: however, there are several genes associated with resistance, and breeding is complex. Transgenically resistant or genetically modified maize varieties are currently under development in South Africa.