CHANGES IN GENE-EXPRESSION DURING STIMULATION AND HATCHING OF THE POTATO CYST-NEMATODE GLOBODERA-ROSTOCHIENSIS

The potato cyst nematode (PCN) Globodera rostochiensis, like other par asitic nematodes, needs to synchronize its life-cycle with that of its host. This synchrony is achieved by the invasive-stage juvenile remai ning dormant within its egg until stimulated to hatch by the presence of root diffusates of its host. Root diffusates may induce changes in gene expression in PCN, some of which may be important in the transiti on to a parasitic mode of existence. We have used a range of technique s including differential display to examine gene expression during sti mulation and hatching of PCN. We find that few changes in gene express ion appear to be induced directly by root diffusates. Instead, changes in gene expression seem to occur during or immediately after the hatc hing process. These results are discussed in the context of the host-p arasite relationship.