Transcriptome Profiling of Potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.) Responses to Root-Knot Nematode ( Meloidogyne javanica ) Infestation during A Compatible Interaction.

Root-knot nematode (RKN)Meloidogyne javanicapresents a great challenge to Solanaceae crops, including potato. In this study, we investigated transcriptional responses of potato roots during a compatible interaction withM. javanica. In this respect, differential gene expression ofSolanum tuberosumcultivar (cv.) Mondial challenged withM. javanicaat 0, 3 and 7 days post-inoculation (dpi) was profiled. In total, 4948 and 4484 genes were detected, respectively, as differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at 3 and 7 dpi. Functional annotation revealed that genes associated with metabolic processes were enriched, suggesting they might have an important role inM. javanicadisease development. MapMan analysis revealed down-regulation of genes associated with pathogen perception and signaling suggesting interference with plant immunity system. Notably, delayed activation of pathogenesis-related genes, down-regulation of disease resistance genes, and activation of host antioxidant system contributed to a susceptible response. Nematode infestation suppressed ethylene (ET) and jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathway hindering JA/ET responsive genes associated with defense. Genes related to cell wall modification were differentially regulated while transport-related genes were up-regulated, facilitating the formation of nematode feeding sites (NFSs). Several families of transcription factors (TFs) were differentially regulated byM. javanicainfestation. Suggesting that TFs play an indispensable role in physiological adaptation for successfulM. javanicadisease development. This genome-wide analysis reveals the molecular regulatory networks in potato roots which are potentially manipulated byM. javanica. Being the first study analyzing transcriptome profiling ofM. javanica-diseased potato, it provides unparalleled insight into the mechanism underlying disease development.