Discovery of the first pectin methylesterase gene in a plant-parasitic nematode

Abstract

The root lesion nematode (RLN) Pratylenchus penetrans is considered one of the most damaging plant-parasitic nematode (PPN) species worldwide affecting important agronomic and horticultural crops (e.g. potato, corn). The successful invasion of roots by RLNs is related to their ability to overcome the barrier imposed by the plant cell wall. Like other PPNs, RLNs are equipped with a protrusible stylet that mechanically disrupts the cell wall and through which cell wall-degrading enzymes are secreted to facilitate penetration and migration of the nematode through host roots. Herein, we identified and characterized a pectin methylesterase gene for P. penetrans. Sequence analysis confirm the eukaryotic gene structure of Pp-pme. Expression of the Pp-pme gene was localized in the esophageal glands of P. penetrans as determined by in situ hybridization. The possible function and activity of the gene were assessed by transient expression of Pp-pme in plants of Nicotiana benthamiana plants via a Potato Virus X-based vector. PMEs have been so far described for plants, fungus, bacteria, and to a restrict number of insects. To our knowledge, this is the first report a PME within the phylum Nematoda.