The potato cyst nematode (PCN) Globodera rostochiensis,
like
other parasitic nematodes, needs to synchronize its life-cycle
with that of its host. This synchrony is achieved by the invasive-stage
juvenile remaining dormant within its egg until
stimulated to hatch by the presence of root diffusates of its host.
Root diffusates may induce changes in gene expression
in PCN, some of which may be important in the transition to a parasitic
mode of existence. We have used a range of
techniques including differential display to examine gene expression
during stimulation and hatching of PCN. We find
that few changes in gene expression appear to be induced directly by
root diffusates. Instead, changes in gene expression
seem to occur during or immediately after the hatching process. These
results are discussed in the context of the host–parasite
relationship.