By Andi Anderson
Researchers at Indiana University have made a breakthrough in soybean disease resistance by identifying a key protein that could help protect crops from cyst nematode infections. Their findings, published in Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions, highlight a discovery that could significantly reduce crop losses.
Soybean cyst nematodes are microscopic roundworms that attack soybean roots, causing annual losses of over $1.5 billion in North America. IU graduate student Alexandra Margets and Distinguished Professor Roger Innes led the study, uncovering how nematodes use a protein called CPR1 (cysteine protease 1) to weaken soybean immune defenses.
CPR1, found in nematode saliva, is secreted into soybean roots during infection, disrupting plant defenses and allowing the pathogen to establish itself. Using an advanced technique called proximity labeling, the research team identified a soybean protein, GmBCAT1, as CPR1’s target. Their experiments showed that CPR1 prevents GmBCAT1 accumulation, making soybeans more vulnerable to infection.
With this knowledge, the team aims to develop “decoy” proteins that can trigger a stronger immune response when attacked by CPR1. If successful, this strategy could significantly improve soybean resistance, boosting yields while minimizing environmental impact.
The Innes laboratory is now working to commercialize this technology, which has the potential to transform soybean farming by reducing losses and increasing productivity.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: Indiana, Crops, Soybeans