Chitinase-expressing bacillus subtilis biocontrol agent for soybean nematode management
A genetically engineered Bacillus subtilis strain engineered to secrete a high-activity Streptomyces chitinase, targeting root-knot nematode eggshells to reduce hatch rates and protect soybean crops. Combines root-colonizing delivery with proven nematocidal enzyme activity for sustainable agricultural biocontrol.
Overview
This biocontrol solution leverages a genetically modified Bacillus subtilis strain (RIK1285) engineered to secrete a potent chitinase enzyme originally identified in Streptomyces strain ID01-15D. The approach targets the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita, a major pathogen of soybean, by degrading chitin in nematode eggshells and cuticles to reduce hatch rates and infection pressure. By using a root-associated Bacillus as a delivery vehicle, the technology aims to improve the stability and field persistence of chitinase-based nematode control compared to direct enzyme application.
Technical specifications
- Enzyme source: Chitinase derived from Streptomyces strain ID01-15D, which demonstrated approximately fifty percent reduction in Meloidogyne chitwoodi egg hatch rate during screening of over one hundred root-associated Streptomyces exudates.
- Delivery vehicle: Bacillus subtilis RIK1285, a strain previously validated for expressing and secreting peptides of interest and known for close association with plant roots.
- Mechanism of action: Secreted chitinase degrades chitin present in nematode eggshells and cuticles, directly impairing hatching and infectivity.
- Validation approach: Expression will be confirmed by Western blot and quantified by ELISA; chitin degradation activity will be assessed via colorimetric microplate assay; nematode hatch rates will be measured after treatment with purified chitinase versus mock controls; root-soaking trials with chitinase-RIK1285 versus empty-vector RIK1285 followed by M. incognita challenge will quantify disease incidence at thirty days.
Technology readiness level
The technology is at an early research and proof-of-concept stage. The chitinase source strain has been identified and characterized for nematocidal activity, and the Bacillus subtilis delivery platform has been validated for heterologous protein secretion. Remaining work includes confirming chitinase expression and activity in the engineered Bacillus, validating nematode hatch reduction against M. incognita, and demonstrating root colonization and disease suppression in plant-based assays before advancing toward greenhouse and field trials.
About Washington State University
Washington State University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university serving the state through a multi‑campus system anchored in Pullman. Industry engagement runs through a research and technology park in Pullman, a health sciences campus in Spokane integrated with regional hospitals, and a statewide extension network linking faculty with companies and communities. The Tri‑Cities campus sits minutes from a U.S. Department of Energy national lab, enabling collaborations, shared facilities access, and talent pipelines for regulated sectors. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, NIH, USDA, DOE, and DoD. A dedicated technology transfer office manages IP, licensing, and startup support, complemented by incubator and pilot‑scale resources.
Inquire about this partnering listing
Looking for
Industry applications
delivered to your inbox.