Current Projects

Comparative Genomics to Understand Nematode Resistance and Resistance-Breaking

Mi-1 is the only commercially available root-knot nematode resistance gene in cultivated tomato. Mi-1 was first introgressed into tomato from the wild tomato Solanum peruvianum. Mi-1 confers resistance to the three commonly occurring and most damaging species of RKNs referred to here as the MIG group (M. arenaria, M. incognita, and M. javanica). Intriguingly, Mi-1 also provides resistance to certain strains of potato aphid (Macrosiphum euphorbiae) and whitefly (Bemisia tabaci). Despite its efficacy, overreliance on Mi-1 has resulted in the emergence of resistance-breaking nematode populations in tomato fields worldwide. We are using comparative genomics to clarify the genetic mechanisms that lead to resistance-breaking and identify genetic factors that enable nematodes to overcome Mi-1-mediated resistance.

Peptide Mimicry: Insights into Tactics of Plant Parasitic Nematodes

Plant peptides containing sulfated tyrosine (PSY)-family peptides are peptide hormones that promote root growth via cell expansion and proliferation. Interestingly, a PSY-like peptide produced by a bacterial pathogen has been shown to contribute to bacterial virulence. Our studies have discovered that root-knot nematode also encode PSY-like peptides. These nematode-encoded PSY mimics facilitate the establishment of parasitism in the host plant. This discovery is a first example of a functional plant peptide mimic encoded by a phytopathogenic bacterium (prokaryote) and a plant-parasitic nematode (an animal). Moving forward, our research is focusing on understanding the precise mechanisms by which these peptides facilitate the nematode infection process.

Genomic Landscape of Meloidogyne hapla

Genomics has opened up a plethora of opportunities to explore the complexities of diverse organisms. A captivating subject within this domain is the genomics of plant parasitic nematodes. Meloidogyne hapla, a northern Root-knot Nematode offers a distinctive and intriguing genomic profile, providing a rich platform for in-depth functional studies of root-knot nematodes. We use cutting-edge technologies to investigate the genomic of root-knot nematodes with a special emphasis on M. hapla. Unlike its RKN relatives, M. hapla, has the unique ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually making it an ideal candidate for comprehensive genomic exploration.  As part of our ongoing efforts, we are dedicated to building valuable community resources. This includes the development of a comprehensive reference genome and detailed annotation of M. hapla. Such resources will not only aid in our research but will also serve as a foundation for the broader scientific community interested in nematode genomics.

Microbial defenders against Root-Knot Nematodes:

Soil has a complex ecosystem within which the interactions between Plant parasitic nematodes and microbial community are of paramount importance. Our research delves into the microbial dynamics associated with these nematodes, especially under field conditions. We aim to spotlight specific microbes that demonstrate antagonistic effects on root-knot nematodes. The goal of this exploration is to discover potential biological control agents, presenting an eco-friendly and efficient approach to combat the challenges posed by plant-parasitic nematodes.

Functional Genomics of Plant-parasitic Nematode
Plant-parasitic nematodes provide an excellent system to investigate specific problems in plant and animal development. They show novel development and behavior involving stem cell proliferation and neuromuscular remodeling during their lifespan, and for both groups, genetic evidence indicates that sex is environmentally rather than chromosomally determined. However, our understanding of the nematode gene repertoire responsible for mediating its behavior and complex interaction with its hosts has been handicapped by a lack of tools for functional genomic analysis. The purpose of this project is to develop a genome-editing toolkit for plant-parasitic nematodes as a powerful means to galvanize research examining the biology of these nematode

 

Sponsors