Analysis of gene expression in cucumber roots interacting with Penicillium chrysogenum strain Snef1216 through seed coating, which induced resistance to Meloidogyne incognita

Abstract

Summary The root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, is a destructive pathogen with a broad host range, causing serious damage to cucumber globally. Synthetic chemical nematicides are effective for controlling nematodes but they pose harmful effects on the environment and human beings. Thus, the development of natural plant defence mechanisms to contribute resistance to M. incognita is a potentially eco-friendly alternative. In recent decades, the biocontrol activity of P. chrysogenum against various pests and pathogens has been investigated in a variety of plants. The present study aimed to understand the molecular mechanisms of induced resistance by P. chrysogenum strain Snef1216 against M. incognita through its use as seed coating. The expression of 80 genes in roots of cucumber, Cucumis sativus, at four different infection time intervals was examined. Genes belonging to defence, signal transduction, growth, binding and transportation, secondary metabolism, transcription factor, cell death, oxidoreductases and cell wall modification categories were selected and examined with specific primers via RT-qPCR. The greater expression of defence-related or other vital genes demonstrated that P. chrysogenum strain Snef1216 induced priming of defence and plant growth-promoting responses. These data could contribute to breeding new nematode-resistant and biomass-enhancing cultivars of cucumber. Overall, application of P. chrysogenum strain Snef1216 may be a potential alternative to chemical nematicides as part of a future more effective management strategy.