Reniform nematodes induce the formation of feeding structures called syncytia in the roots of infected plants. The goal of this project is to identify vulnerable points in the process of syncytia formation that can be disrupted to halt the nematode life cycle and protect soybean plants. This research directly compares differences in gene expression between healthy roots and syncytial roots. These differentially-expressed genes become targets for breeding and genetic engineering aimed at creating nematode-resistant plants. Work intends to create a detailed time course of gene expression during syncytial development, identify metabolic and regulatory pathways that control syncytium formation and develop a set of breeding and resistance target genes. The effect of silencing these genes will be evaluated in future work.

Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, extension agents, soybean breeders, seed companies