Dissecting Gpa2-mediated immune signaling pathways involved in resistance to the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida

Potato resistance gene Gpa2 encodes a CC-NB-LRR protein, which confers resistance against potato cyst nematodes Globodera pallida. Gpa2 recognize variants of secretory protein GpRBP-1 from G. pallida. It is revealed that GpRBP-1 recognition is determined by C-terminus of the LRR domain of Gpa2. However, there is no physical interaction between the LRR domain and GpRBP-1. It is assumed that an indirect recognition model is applied in which Gpa2 may perceive GpRBP-1 within the help of other cellular host factors. For CC-NB-LRR immune receptors, it is thought that the CC domain is involved in indirect pathogen recognition and induction of downstream signaling. The NB-ARC domain together with the N-terminal of the LRR domains control the activity of immune receptor, whereas the LRR domain is thought to be involved in pathogen detection and controlling resting state of protein. Although the basic structural function is known about Gpa2, molecular mechanism and pathways involved in Gpa2-mediated resistance still remains vague. The aim of this project is to dissect Gpa2-mediated activation mechanism and immune signaling pathways involved in plant resistance against potato cyst nematode G. pallida.