We demonstrate that Bacillus velezensis RKN1111 induces cucumber resistance by activating the host gene CsHPD and enhancing α-tocotrienol biosynthesis. Functional validation assays confirmed that CsHPD and α-tocotrienol suppress infection by M. incognita. These findings uncover a previously unknown microbe-induced metabolic defense pathway and provide a promising genetic target for breeding nematode-resistant cucumbers. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
MA et al. (Tue,) studied this question.