RESEARCHER
elena.fanelli(AT)ipsp.cnr.it
080.592.9246
publications: Orcid
personal details and activity: People
Curriculum Vitae
The functional characterization of plant parasitic nematode genes involved in the interaction with the host plant is the object of my research. Studies are currently focused on the isolation and molecular characterization of effector genes (eat-shock proteins, endoglucanases, retinol and fatty acid-binding proteins, major sperm proteins) involved in the plant-nematode interaction.
The invasion, migration and the ability of the nematode to live in the host plant is given by the products of these effector genes.
The expression variation of nematode parasitism genes in response to abiotic stress (water stress, temperature variations, treatment with natural nematicidal compounds) is analyzed by transcript analysis (qRT-PCR, in situ hybridization).
The functional analysis of the transcripts involved in parasitism is performed by using RNA interference.
I’m also involved in molecular identification as well evolution and phylogeny of plant parasitic and entomopathogenic nematode species (Genera: Xiphinema, Meloidogyne, Longidorus, Pratylenchus, Steinernema and Heterorhabditis) from all over the world, using as molecular markers regions of ribosomal DNA and mitochondrial genes. By using an integrated approach, I could set-up and validate molecular protocols for the identification of plant parasitic nematodes giving a contribution in diagnosis of several economically important nematode pests. A more recent field concerns the monitoring and sustainable management of plant parasitic nematodes on crops such as grapes and corn. Working within the IPSP Dissemination Group (GruCoDis), I’m involved in scientific dissemination events.