Research in the Baum lab focuses on the compatible interaction between cyst nematodes and their hosts with particular emphasis on the soybean cyst nematode (Heterodera glycines). We are working to characterize the signal transduction events leading to successful nematode establishment and parasitism. This includes characterization of changes in soybean and nematode gene expression during the different phases of parasitism.


Furthermore, Arabidopsis thaliana mutants are screened for altered susceptibility to cyst nematodes with the goal of identifying and characterizing relevant genes. Understanding the compatible plant-nematode interaction will allow us to interfere with parasitism through genetic engineering of host plants.