Effect of the two PVY strains(PVY-VB and PVY-VN) on yield and chemical constituents of tobacco plants was determined in roar. NC2326 and Burley 21. The virus was inoculated 6 and 8 weeks after transplanting, respectively. The strains and time of inoculation were most critical factors for yield reduction. The greatest reduction was caused by the necrotic strain (PVY-VN) inoculated 6 weeks after transplanting, accounting for the loss of 40% in var. NC2326 and of 45% in var.. Burley21. When inoculated 8 weeks after transplanting with the necrotic strain, only 17% reduction was recorded in roar. Burley21, but no reduction occurred in roar. NC2326. Generally less reduction was caused by the PVY-VB strain, ranging 12-16% depending on the time of inoculation and/or variety. Compared to healthy tobacco, PVY infected tobacco contained higher concentrations of total nitrogen, protein nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, and lower total sugar in cured leaf of roar. NC2326. Total alkaloid, P, Mg, Ca, and K levels were not altered. In var. Burley21, protein nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen increased, but other chemical components were not changed. Necrotic strain-infected tobacco with a severe symptom had higher nitrogen than did mild strain-infected tobacco.