Advances in Plant-Nematode Interactions with Emphasis on the Notorious Nematode Genus Meloidogyne

Plant infections by plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) continue to be one of the major limitations in agricultural systems. Root-knot nematodes (RKNs), belonging to the genus Meloidogyne, are one of the most important groups of PPNs worldwide. Their wide host range combined with ubiquitous presence, continues to provide challenges for their control and breeding for resistance. Although resistance to RKNs has been identified, incorporation of these resistances into crops and durability of the resistance remains challenging. In addition, progress in cloning of RKN resistance genes has been dismal. Recent identification of pattern-triggered immunity in roots against nematodes, an ascaroside as a nematode-associated molecular pattern (NAMP) and the discovery of a NAMP plant receptor, provide tools and opportunities to develop durable host resistance against nematodes including RKNs.