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The innovation is a molecular target to develop plants with enhanced resistance to nematodes.

ISU researchers have demonstrated that the miRNA396-GRF regulatory unit in the model plant Arabidopsis mediates parasitism by the sugar beet nematode. Furthermore, the data indicates that the miRNA396 represents a key regulator for the reprogramming of root cells representing a powerful molecular target for the animal. Since miRNA396 is highly conserved in plants, manipulation of its expression in  agronomic crops may also lead to enhanced resistance to nematodes.

• Molecular modification approach

• Potential utility in many crop species

Construction of transgenic or gene edited plants with enhanced resistance to nematodes

1. The Arabidopsis MicroRNA396-GRF1/GRF3 Regulatory Module Acts as a Developmental Regulator in the Reprogramming of Root Cells during Cyst Nematode Infection1,[W][OA] Tarek Hewezi, Tom R. Maier, Dan Nettleton, and Thomas J. Baum*