Biological and stress characterization of Potato Cyst Nematode in response to modified potato expressing blight resistance

Abstract

Genetically modified (GM) plants may show unintended differences from their original varieties, potentially affecting non-target organisms (NTOs). This laboratory study examined interactions between a blight- resistant GM potato and the potato cyst nematode Globodera pallida, an obligate plant-feeder species collected from infested potatoes in Avezzano, Italy. Morphometric and biological traits, along with the expression of heat shock proteins (HSP27, HSP60, HSP70, and HSP90), in G. pallida grown on the GM potato (Vnt1), its isogenic counterpart Desirée (ISO), and the conventional cultivar Sharpo Mira (Con) were assessed. Most morphometric and biological parameters showed no significant differences. How- ever, fewer juveniles hatched from nematodes exposed to the GM potato. While HSP27, HSP60, and HSP70 levels remained unchanged, HSP90 expression increased in nematodes on the GM variety, sug- gesting it may be a useful biomarker for stress response. This could aid in selecting potato varieties toler- ant to plant-parasitic nematodes (PNC). Further research is needed to determine whether the stress re- sponse is due to the GM protein or indirect effects. Overall, observed differences were minor, with no harmful effects on the nematodes.