Bacterial strain screening for nematicidal biocontrol solutions
Leverages a library of over 12,000 microbial isolates to identify plant-associated rhizobacteria with nematicidal activity for controlling plant-parasitic nematodes. Approximately 150 confirmed nematode-lethal strains include Bacillus, Paenibacillus, and Pseudomonas species, offering a biological alternative to chemical nematicides for crop protection.
Overview
This research program focuses on identifying and screening bacterial strains with nematicidal activity to develop biological control solutions for plant-parasitic nematodes. Drawing inspiration from the successful Bacillus thuringiensis paradigm used in insect control, the approach harnesses plant-associated rhizobacteria (PAR) that have evolved natural nematode-killing properties through their close ecological association with nematodes in the rhizosphere. The work addresses a significant agricultural challenge, as plant-parasitic nematodes such as soybean cyst nematodes and root-knot nematodes cause substantial crop yield losses worldwide.
Technical specifications
Discovery platform:
- A curated library of over 12,000 microbial isolates sourced from diverse water, soil, and plant samples
- Approximately 150 bacterial isolates confirmed lethal to the model nematode Caenorhabditis elegans
- Strain composition: ~70% Bacillus and Paenibacillus species, ~25% Pseudomonas species, and ~5% from other genera
Mode of action characterization:
- Pseudomonas strains screened for activity against soybean cyst nematodes
- Mechanisms identified include toxic proteins and volatile organic compounds
- Ongoing work to enhance mode-of-action activity under field conditions
Current research focus:
- Endospore-forming Bacillus and related gram-positive strains represent an untapped resource for nematicidal applications
- Greenhouse and field validation of strain efficacy against plant-parasitic nematodes
- Characterization of root colonization, plant growth promotion, and yield impact under nematode and non-nematode challenges
Technology readiness level
The collection has been initially screened and confirmed for nematode-lethal activity, with mode-of-action characterization completed for many Pseudomonas strains. The endospore-forming bacterial strains require further laboratory and greenhouse validation before field deployment. The program is seeking a funding partner to support personnel, supplies, and equipment to accelerate the screening and validation pipeline toward commercial biocontrol product development.
About The Ohio State University
The Ohio State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university in Columbus, serving one of the nation’s largest student populations and a broad research enterprise. Industry partners engage through an integrated academic medical center for clinical translation, a campus‑adjacent innovation district for co‑located projects, and a statewide extension network that pilots solutions across Ohio. Corporate engagement provides a single front door for sponsored research, talent pipelines, and streamlined agreements. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, DOE, USDA, DoD, and NASA. A dedicated technology transfer office and venture support help protect IP, license technologies, and launch startups.
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