University of Missouri Researchers Explore New Defense Against Soybean Cyst Nematodes.
Scientists at the University of Missouri are investigating a naturally occurring soybean mutation that could offer a new strategy for reducing damage caused by the soybean cyst nematode, a major pest responsible for significant yield losses worldwide.
The soybean cyst nematode attacks plant roots, draining nutrients needed for healthy growth. Infested plants often develop yellow leaves, become stunted, and produce lower yields, making the pest a costly challenge for soybean growers.
The research centers on a soybean enzyme called SHMT8, a mutation that researchers first identified more than a decade ago. By using advanced electron microscopy, the team examined the enzyme’s structure and discovered that the altered version contains only two protein units instead of the usual four.
The study, led by biochemistry professor Lesa Beamer and doctoral student Vindya Samarakoon, found that this structural difference changes how the enzyme functions in folate metabolism, a process essential for plant development.
Researchers believe the mutation may also create a less favorable environment for soybean cyst nematodes in the roots.
“Perhaps if the plant is only producing less folate in the roots due to this mutation, the nematode can’t get enough nutrients to grow and reproduce,” Beamer said.
The researchers explained that SHMT enzymes located in other parts of the soybean plant likely continue producing enough folate to support normal growth, while the root-specific mutation may reduce the pest’s ability to thrive.
“Since plants need folate to grow, our challenge is to perhaps figure out a way to reduce folate metabolism enough to hurt the nematode but not so much that the soybean itself suffers or decreases in yield,” Beamer said.
“While the research in its early stages, if our efforts were to one day lead to breeding new mutant plants that ultimately help soybean farmers out in the field, that would be a dream come true.”
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