Genomic and Transcriptomic Insights into the Evolution and Parasitic Strategy of the Woody-Plant Nematode Pratylenchus vulnus

Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions 2026 Open access

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Authors: Dadong Dai, Yali Zhang, Romnick Latina, Xuyun Yang, Valerie M. Williamson, Simon C. Groen, Syed Shamsullah, Charles A. Leslie, Bardo Castro, Shahid Siddique
DOI: 10.1094/mpmi-10-25-0133-fi
Cited by: 2
References: 64

Abstract

The root-lesion nematode Pratylenchus vulnus parasitizes a wide range of hosts, including woody perennials such as walnut ( Juglans regia) and grapevine ( Vitis vinifera), significantly damaging roots and reducing yields. Here, we present a high-quality, chromosome-level genome assembly of P. vulnus (61.7 Mb across six chromosomes). Comparative genomic analysis revealed high collinearity in protein-coding genes between P. vulnus and the root-knot nematode included in this analysis, Meloidogyne graminicola, indicating a close evolutionary relationship between these genera of plant parasites. Large chromosomal regions in P. vulnus lack synteny with other nematode genomes, have comparatively low GC content (

Fields of Study & Subjects

Nematode management and characterization studies Plant nutrient uptake and metabolism Mycorrhizal Fungi and Plant Interactions

Publication details

Journal / source
Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions
Publisher
Scientific Societies
Volume
39
Issue
2
Pages
265–277
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN