Conferring Resistance to Soybean Cyst Nematode Using Decoy Engineering

Background

• Problem: Control of soybean diseases is becoming increasingly challenging due to the development of resistance in pathogens.
• Solution: A novel PBS1-based disease-resistance system that is specific to individual soybean pathogens.
• Unique value proposition: The method provides genetic resistance to soybean cyst nematodes.

Technology Overview

The soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is responsible for yield losses exceeding $1.5 billion annually in the U.S. and is the number one yield-reducing pathogen for soybeans. Current control systems rely on just two genetic sources of resistance, but the widespread deployment of these genotypes has led to the evolution of SCN populations that overcome these resistant traits. There is thus an acute need to develop novel sources of genetic resistance to SCN.

IU researchers have developed a method for modifying the PBS1 gene of soybean plants that confers resistance to infection by soybean cyst nematodes. This modification enables the PBS1 protein to be cleaved by a protease injected by SCN. Cleavage of the PBS1 protein then activates a strong immune response that blocks the formation of the nematode feeding site. This modified PBS1 protein thus functions as a decoy substrate of the nematode protease, acting as a molecular switch to turn on immunity in the presence of the nematode.

In addition, the method can also be adapted to prevent other diseases such as root knot Nematodes, Asian soybean rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi), white mold (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum), sudden death syndrome (Fusarium virguliforme), root and stem rot (Phytophthora sojae), and soybean mosaic virus (SMV).

Lead PI for 2025‑033 technology: Roger Innes

Benefits

• SCN resistant soybean lines with a new mode of action.
• Can be conferred by either transgenic approaches or genome editing.

Applications

• Disease resistance in crops.

Opportunity

This technology is open to feedback