Strategies for transgenic nematode control in developed and developing world crops

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Biotechnology
• Nematology

Background:

• Nematodes cause substantial global crop losses ($118 billion annually), with limited control options.
• Natural resistance genes are often unavailable or slow to introgress into crop varieties.
• Pesticide reliance is decreasing, increasing the need for alternative nematode management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and highlight the potential of transgenic plant technology for nematode resistance.
• To discuss current field-trialed and emerging RNA interference (RNAi) based approaches.
• To address the deployment and market acceptance of biotechnological nematode control.

Main Methods:

• Field trials of transgenic strategies targeting nematode dietary protein uptake.
• Field trials of transgenic strategies preventing nematode root invasion.
• Exploration of RNA interference (RNAi) combined with genomic data for resistance traits.

Main Results:

• Transgenic approaches demonstrate efficacy in controlling a wide range of nematodes.
• Tissue-specific promoters deliver resistance genes to roots, minimizing impact on harvested yield.
• Stacking multiple resistance traits, including natural resistance, enhances efficacy and durability.

Conclusions:

• Transgenic plants provide a viable and effective solution for nematode resistance in crops.
• Market acceptance, not technological availability, is the primary constraint to adoption.
• Nematode resistance is crucial due to pesticide withdrawal and economic pressures, especially in developing nations.