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Apr 21 2025
6A breakthrough study has revealed a new method to combat soybean cyst nematodes—the most destructive pest to U.S. soybean production—by interfering with how the microscopic roundworms "communicate" with plant roots. This approach could open the door to more effective pest control strategies and reduce the significant crop losses caused by these parasitic organisms each year.
The study, recently published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, highlights the discovery of a protein in cyst nematodes that activates a multitude of chemical signals, known as effectors, which the parasites inject into plant roots to hijack and transform cells into feeding structures. Thomas Baum, a distinguished professor of plant pathology, entomology, and microbiology at Iowa State University and a co-author of the research, described the protein as a transcription factor—an agent that regulates gene activity.
Though this protein is likely one of several involved in effector regulation, researchers found that its absence led to a dramatic reduction in nematode infection. “It’s a validated target—concrete molecular evidence that shows a single transcription factor can significantly influence infection. This proof of concept paves the way for new strategies in nematode control,” said Baum.
Cracking the Nematode Code:
Nematologists have long sought to target effectors as a way to prevent these pests from infecting crops like soybeans, sugar beets, and potatoes. However, previous efforts were hindered by the sheer number and diversity of effector molecules, which allow nematodes to quickly adapt. "Eliminating one effector barely dents their capabilities. They simply switch to another," Baum explained.
Effectors are critical to the nematodes’ ability to colonize plant roots. After emerging from the soil, the worms burrow into roots and target a single plant cell. Instead of immediately feeding, they send chemical messages that transform this cell into an entirely new type, not normally found in soybeans. This cell then merges with surrounding cells to create a large, nutrient-rich structure designed solely to nourish the nematode.
Discovering SUGR-1:
To address the redundancy of effectors, researchers examined the esophageal glands of the nematodes—where effectors are produced. Using genomic and transcriptomic data, Baum and his collaborators compared gene expression patterns in the glands. The team at the University of Cambridge, led by Sebastian Eves-van den Akker, identified a key transcription factor they named Subventral-Gland Regulator 1 (SUGR-1). This regulator activates at least 58 effector genes.
Further investigation revealed that SUGR-1 is triggered by chemical cues from host plant roots, dubbed "effectostimulins." These root-derived signals activate SUGR-1, kicking off the infection process. “The most compelling aspect of our findings is the self-reinforcing cycle it describes,” said Eves-van den Akker. “Nematodes damage plant cells, detect the resulting signals, and respond in ways that enhance their infection capability.”
Implications for Agriculture:
Currently, soybean growers rely on crop rotation and resistant cultivars to limit nematode damage. This new insight into nematode-host signaling offers a broader range of options. Baum suggested future soybean varieties could be engineered to produce RNA molecules that, once ingested by the nematode, block SUGR-1 activation. Other strategies might include gene editing or chemical treatments to disrupt effectostimulins. Even partial success could yield meaningful results: “Reducing infections by 40% would be a significant victory in the field,” Baum noted.
The findings could also have applications in veterinary and human medicine, as nematodes are harmful parasites across a variety of species.
Just the Beginning:
Baum and Eves-van den Akker plan to continue their research partnership, which Baum praised as highly collaborative and mutually beneficial. “This kind of partnership—where ideas are freely shared and built upon—is exactly what science needs to make real progress,” he said.
Looking ahead, the team expects to identify additional transcription factors and signaling mechanisms that control effector production. “SUGR-1 is just the first to stand out,” Baum added. “There are many more targets to discover. This is only the beginning.”
Source:https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/04/250418112816.html
This is non-financial/medical advice and made using AI so could be wrong.
