Resistance to both cyst and root-knot nematodes conferred by transgenic Arabidopsis expressing a modified plant cystatin
Abstract
Plant nematodes are major pests of agriculture. Transgenic plant technology has been developed based on the use of proteinase inhibitors as nematode anti-feedants. The approach offers prospects for novel plant resistance and reduced use of environmentally damaging nematicides. A modified rice cystatin, Oc-IΔD86, expressed as a transgene in Arabidopsis thaliana, has a profound effect on the size and fecundity of females for both Heterodera schachtii (beet-cyst nematode) and Meloidogyne incognita (root-knot nematode). No females of either species achieved the minimum size they require for egg production. Ingestion of Oc-IΔD86 from the plant was correlated with loss of cysteine proteinase activity in the intestine thereby suppressing normal growth, as required of an effective anti-feedant plant defence.
Citation
Urwin, P.E.; Lilley, C.J.; McPherson, M.J.; Atkinson, H.J. Resistance to both cyst and root-knot nematodes conferred by transgenic Arabidopsis expressing a modified plant cystatin. Plant Journal (1997) 12 (2) 455-461. [DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-313X.1997.12020455.x]