ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A PUTATIVE COLLAGEN GENE FROM THE POTATO CYST-NEMATODE GLOBODERA-PALLIDA

A cDNA clone encoding a full length putative collagen has been isolate d in a screen of a mixed stage Globodera pallida expression library. C omparison of the deduced amino acid sequence of this molecule with oth er collagens suggests it is a cuticular collagen and a member of the c ol-8 subfamily of collagen genes. Northern blots show the gene is expr essed specifically in gravid, adult females of the parasite as compare d to second (invasive) stage juveniles and virgin females. Preliminary immunocytochemical studies indicate this collagen is present in areas other than the cuticle; these findings and the potential functional r ole of this collagen are discussed.