The root-knot nematode effector Mi2G02 hijacks a host plant trihelix transcription factor to promote nematode parasitism.

ABSTRACT: Root-knot nematodes (RKNs) cause huge agricultural losses every year. They secrete a repertoire of effectors to facilitate parasitism through the induction of plant-derived giant feeding cells, which serve as their sole source of nutrients. However, the mode of action of these effectors and their targeted host proteins remain largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the role of the effector Mi2G02 in Meloidogyne incognita parasitism. Host-derived Mi2G02 RNA interference in Arabidopsis thaliana affected giant cell development, whereas ectopic expression of Mi2G02 promoted root growth and increased plant susceptibility to M. incognita. We used various combinations of approaches to study the specific interactions between Mi2G02 and A. thaliana GT-3a, a trihelix transcription factor. GT

SUBMITTER: Zhao J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10873892 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature