Genetically modified bacteria could deter crop parasites
19 September 2018
Scientists are using modified bacteria to protect the roots of crops from parasitic worms.
Plant parasitic nematodes (PPNs) are a group of roundworms that feed on crops, particularly the roots. It is estimated the damage caused to crops by PPNs exceeds $100 billion each year.
PPNs locate crops by following the plant root exudates. These are chemicals signals released from the roots of plants as they grow.
A genetically modified form of the bacteria Bacillus subtilis is able to secrete a peptide which prevents PPNs from being able to detect these plant root exudates. B. subtilis was modified by researchers at Queen’s University Belfast.
In laboratory tests, the peptide prevented 90% of roots from being invaded by PPNs and researchers found the peptide only affects soil-based nematodes. Researchers think the peptide stops PPNs from sensing plant root exudates by affecting sensory systems.
It is hoped that this genetically modified bacteria could be used to improve crop productivity without impacting on other aspects of the ecosystem.
Neil Warnock, from Queens University, Belfast, will present his findings at the Microbiology Society Focused Meeting: Microbiomes Underpinning Agriculture.
His talk, 'Engineering the rhizosphere microbiome for crop parasite control' will take place at 14:45 on 1 October, at the Rochester Park Hotel, Cork, Ireland.
Image: showcake/Thinkstock.