The regeneration conferring transcription factor complex ERF115-PAT1 coordinates a wound-induced response in root-knot nematode induced galls

The establishment of root-knot nematode (RKN; Meloidogyne spp.) induced galls in the plant host roots likely involves a wound-induced regeneration response. Confocal imaging demonstrates physical stress or injury caused by RKN infection during parasitism in the model host Arabidopsis thaliana. The ERF115-PAT1 heterodimeric transcription factor complex plays a recognized role in wound-induced regeneration. ERF115 and PAT1 expression flanks injured gall cells likely driving mechanisms of wound healing, implying a local reactivation of cell division which is also hypothetically involved in gall genesis. Herein, functional investigation revealed that ectopic ERF115 expression resulted in premature induction of galls, and callus formation adjacent to the expanding female RKN was seen upon PAT1 upregulation. Smaller galls and less reproduction were observed in ERF115 and PAT1 knockouts. Investigation of components in the ERF115 network upon overexpression and knockdown by qRT-PCR suggests it contributes to steer gall wound-sensing and subsequent competence for tissue regeneration. High expression of CYCD6;1 was detected in galls, and WIND1 overexpression resulted in similar ERF115(OE) gall phenotypes, also showing faster gall induction. Along these lines, we show that the ERF115-PAT1 complex likely coordinates stress signalling with tissue healing, keeping the gall functional until maturation and nematode reproduction.