Functional characterization of ShK domain-containing protein in the plant- parasitic nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus.

Abstract

Plant pathogens cause severe economic and ecological problems in a wide range of crops and forestry plant species worldwide. The migratory plant parasitic nematode Bursaphelenchus xylophilus (pinewood nematode, PWN) is a European quarantine organism which causes economic and ecological damage to the forestry industry leading to the death of the tree. The interactions of plant-parasitic nematodes with their hosts are mediated by parasitism-related proteins: secreted proteins produced by the pathogen that modify the host to their benefit and to protect itself against host defenses. Several proteins have been identified in B. xylophilus as important during the interaction with the host, including toxins, venom-like proteins, and other peptides which their function is unknown.