Genetically manipulating a resistance gene could provide a way to defeat soybean cyst nematode (SCN) according to Melissa Mitchum, professor in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at the University of Georgia. She was a member of the research team that made the discovery.

SNC costs U.S. farmers $1.5 billion in reduced soybean yields each year. Farmers have traditionally used genetically resistant soybean varieties to fight SCN, but overuse has reduced the effectiveness.

Researchers discovered that introducing a bad copy of a resistance gene may provide a solution that will prevent the nematode from accessing the plant. The GmSNAP02 gene is a common component of SCN-resistant soybeans. It was recently discovered that this gene might be helping SCN overcome genetic resistance in the soybean plant. Manipulating the GmSNAP02 gene may preserve the SCN resistance and render the parasite ineffective.

Read more on the latest research to prevent SCN here.