Microarray analysis of gene expression in soybean roots susceptible to the soybean cyst nematode two days post invasion

Soybean root cells undergo dramatic morphological and biochemical changes during the establishment of a feeding site in a compatible interaction with the soybean cyst nematode (SCN). We constructed a cDNA microarray with approximately 1,300 cDNA inserts targeted to identify differentially expressed genes during the compatible interaction of SCN with soybean roots 2 days after infection. Three independent biological replicates were grown and inoculated with SCN, and 2 days later RNA was extracted for hybridization to microarrays and compared to noninoculated controls. Statistical analysis indicated that approximately 8% of the genes monitored were induced and more than 50% of these were genes of unknown function. Notable genes that were more highly expressed 2 days after inoculation with SCN as compared to noninoculated roots included the repetitive proline-rich glycoprotein, the stress-induced gene SAM22, s-1,3-endoglucanase, peroxidase, and those involved in carbohydrate metabolism, plant defense, and signaling.