The genome and lifestage-specific transcriptomes of a plant-parasitic nematode and its host reveal susceptibility genes involved in trans-kingdom synthesis of vitamin B5.

Plant-parasitic nematodes are a major threat to crop production in all agricultural systems. The scarcity of classical resistance genes highlights a pressing need to find new ways to develop nematode-resistant germplasm. Here, we sequence and assemble a high-quality phased genome of the model cyst nematode Heterodera schachtii to provide a platform for the first system-wide dual analysis of host and parasite gene expression over time, covering all major parasitism stages.

Plant parasitic cyst nematodes redirect host indole metabolism via NADPH oxidase-mediated ROS to promote infection.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated in response to infections often activate immune responses in eukaryotes including plants. In plants, ROS are primarily produced by plasma membrane-bound NADPH oxidases called respiratory burst oxidase homologue (Rboh). Surprisingly, Rbohs can also promote the infection of plants by certain pathogens, including plant parasitic cyst nematodes.

African Nightshade and African Spinach Decrease Root-Knot Nematode and Potato Cyst Nematode Soil Infestation in Kenya.

Plant-parasitic nematodes, particularly root-knot nematodes (RKN: spp.) and cyst nematodes (CN: and spp.) cause severe yield reduction in most cultivated crops and are of high economic importance.