Sugarcane-Pratylenchus zeae Interactions

This project explores the molecular mechanisms underlying sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) resistance to the root-lesion nematode Pratylenchus zeae, a major soil-borne pathogen causing significant yield losses. Using comparative transcriptomics, we analyzed root gene expression profiles of two contrasting sugarcane hybrids: resistant (RB966982) and susceptible (CTC9001), at 15 days post-inoculation. Additionally, future studies under this project should address the genome assembly of this pathogen.