How soybeans tackle nematode invaders

“Fight-or-flight” is not an option for plants, unfortunately, when it comes to pathogen attacks. Instead, plants opt for “do-or-die.” A deeper insight into the genetic mechanisms that enable plants to resist pathogen infections has equipped researchers with tools to tackle the most devastating pathogens in agriculture.

Using advanced RNA sequencing, researchers have recently uncovered how varieties of soybean respond to different types of soybean cyst nematodes (SCNs), with potential implications for developing more resilient crops and reducing reliance on chemical treatments.

Published in Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions, the study led by Mst Shamira Sultana, from the Hewezi Lab at the University of Tennessee, revealed new insights into the genetic mechanisms that enable soybean plants to resist infection by SCN. The paper is titled “Differential Transcriptome Reprogramming Induced by the Soybean Cyst Nematode Type 0 and Type 1.2.5.7 During Resistant and Susceptible Interactions.”

The study explored how both resistant and susceptible soybean varieties react at the genetic level when exposed to SCN. The researchers investigated the alterations in gene expression in soybean roots during SCN infection.

The results revealed that resistant plants ramp up the activation of genes involved in immune responses, effectively protecting them from damage.

In contrast, susceptible plants failed to activate these critical defense genes, leaving them vulnerable to nematode attack. Interestingly, this research also highlighted that certain genes are regulated in opposite ways depending on the plant’s resistance status, offering new insights into how plants distinguish and respond to different types of nematode threats.

By manipulating specific genes that render plants susceptible or resistant to pests, researchers aimed to enhance resistance in otherwise vulnerable plants. An exciting part of this research is revealing how soybean varieties have different genetic responses to various types of soybean cyst nematodes.

“We’re excited to uncover how different soybean lines have distinct genetic responses to these microscopic pests,” said Tarek Hewezi. He added, “This research not only enhances our understanding of plant defense mechanisms but also opens up new possibilities for breeding soybeans that are naturally more resistant to nematode infections.”

The impacts of this study are far reaching. SCNs cause billions of dollars in crop losses worldwide each year, threatening food security and progress toward sustainable agriculture.

By focusing on the genes that control resistance, scientists can work to breed soybeans that naturally resist nematodes, reducing the need for chemical pesticides.

“This knowledge is essential for developing more resilient crops and minimizing the need for chemical pesticides, ultimately promoting more sustainable agricultural practices,” said Hewezi. This research marks a major step forward in understanding plant defenses and has the potential to revolutionize soybean breeding.