- Analyzing the expression of each nematode parasitism gene to identify how the timing and level of gene expression in nematodes may influence the RNAi effect.
- Identify how the protein product of each nematode parasitism gene functions to modify plant cells for parasitism and its potential as a target for disruption.
- Determine not only the effect of PG-RNAi on the number of cyst females produced on host roots, but identify potential effects on the length of the nematode life cycle and the number of eggs produced per nematode.
- Quantify the expression level of PG-RNAi expressed in plants and compare this to target native nematode gene expression levels to identify the correct dose of RNAi needed to maximize nematode inhibition.
- Analyze the RNAi transgene constructs used to transform plants to optimize maximum effective RNAi production at the site of nematode infection in roots.
- Screen soybean lines that express RNAi targeted to specific SCN parasitism genes for expression of RNAi and resistance to SCN. Lines of soybean hairy roots or composite plants may be used initially for these analyses to more rapidly assess promising new SCN resistance genes.