Plant-nematode interactions.

Abstract

Recent breakthroughs in research on plantnematode interactions underpinned by the availability of modern molecular techniques is attracting attention to this particular area of phytopathology. In contrast with most bacterial and fungal pathogens, sedentary nematodes are true parasites and establish a long-lasting interaction with their host. They induce profound alterations in host cell morphology (Fig. 1) that are scientifically intriguing and to a large extent a black box. It is the purpose of this paper to review the latest results that allow us an opportunity to peek inside that box. Eventually, more detailed knowledge of the molecular basis of the interaction will enable us to design elegant strategies to engineer nematode resistance in a range of crop plants.