The soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines) is the most damaging pathogen of soybean and is widespread in Minnesota and most soybean-growing regions of the world. As a species, SCN contains significant variation in virulence (ability to reproduce on different soybean lines) and morphology. For this project we propose to study the phenotypic and genotypic diversity of SCN in Minnesota. Specifically, we will phenotype 185 inbred lines of cyst nematodes randomly selected from Minnesota soybean fields for their virulence phenotypes on the SCN-resistant germplasm lines PI 88788, Peking (PI 548402), Pickett (PI 548988), PI 567516C, PI 438489B, and PI 90763. These germplasm lines contain diverse SCN resistance genes. We will also study variations in SCN morphology and conduct whole-genome sequencing on these inbred SCN lines. The knowledge of SCN phenotypic and genotypic diversity will be highly useful for strategically breeding soybean cultivars resistant to soybean cyst nematode with the most effective sources of resistance. This project will advance technology to manage the most destructive pest of soybean and maintain the crop’s productivity in Minnesota.

Goal 1: Determine diversity of SCN virulence phenotypes in Minnesota

Objective 1: Characterization of virulence phenotypes of inbred SCN lines.

In this objective, we will continue work to characterize the virulence phenotypes of 185 inbred SCN lines. Specifically, the reproduction potential as measured with the female index (FI) of the nematode lines will be determined on the SCN-resistance sources used or potentially used in public (e.g., UMN) and private soybean breeding programs. The data will be used to analyze the diversity of SCN in Minnesota.

Goal 2: Identify regions of the SCN genome controlling virulence

Objective 2: Whole genome sequencing and morphological analysis of inbred SCN lines.

To address this objective we will sequence the genomes of the 185 inbred SCN lines. We will compare this genomic data to virulence phenotype data to identify factors controlling virulence in the SCN genome. In addition, we will analyze morphological parameters and determine if they are associated with virulence phenotypes and regions of the genome. To our knowledge, nothing like this has ever been done. The unique collection of 185 SCN inbred lines at our disposal makes this possible.

- This project will develop knowledge of diversity of SCN virulence in Minnesota which can be used to strategically deploy effective types of resistance in soybean cultivars.
- The study will result in a better understanding of the basic biology of soybean cyst nematode, including the potential mapping of virulence genes in SCN.
- If virulence genes can be tagged by molecular markers, it is possible that in the future a simple lab test could be used to characterize field populations of SCN, which would help farmers choose the most effective sources of SCN resistance for their field.
- The information developed from this project will be shared at extension education events such as the Agronomy Field Tour, Open House at the University of Minnesota Southern Research and Outreach Center, and the MN Ag Expo.
- The research will be published in scientific journals for a broader dissemination.

Update:
The soybean cyst nematode (SCN, Heterodera glycines) is the most damaging pathogen of soybean and is widespread in Minnesota and most soybean-growing regions of the world. As a species, SCN contains significant variation in virulence (ability to reproduce on different soybean lines) and morphology. For this project we propose to study the phenotypic and genotypic diversity of SCN in Minnesota. Specifically, we phenotype 180 inbred lines of cyst nematodes randomly selected from Minnesota soybean fields for their virulence phenotypes on the SCN-resistant germplasm lines PI 88788, Peking (PI 548402), Pickett (PI 548988), PI 567516C, PI 438489B, and PI 90763. These germplasm lines contain diverse SCN resistance genes. We are also studying variations in SCN morphology and conduct whole-genome sequencing on these inbred SCN lines. The knowledge of SCN phenotypic and genotypic diversity will be highly useful for strategically breeding soybean cultivars resistant to soybean cyst nematode with the most effective sources of resistance. This project will advance technology to manage the most destructive pest of soybean and maintain the crop’s productivity in Minnesota.

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Update:

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Update:
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