Transcription Factor GmMYB29 Activates GmPP2C-37like Expression to Mediate Soybean Defense Against Heterodera glycines Race 3

Soybean cyst nematode (SCN, <i>Heterodera glycines</i>) is one of the major pathogens of soybean worldwide. We utilized the CHIP-Seq (chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing) and RNA-Seq (RNA sequencing) data from the transgenic <i>GmMYB29</i> strain (<i>Glycine Max</i> roots). We then performed enrichment analysis using KEGG and GO to identify potential candidate genes within the promoter-binding region. A targeted regulatory relationship between the <i>GmMYB29</i> and <i>GmPP2C-37like</i> genes was further identified using the dual-luciferase Assay (Luciferase, LUC) and yeast one-hybrid Assay (Y1H). Hairy roots with target gene overexpression and gene-edited hairy roots were generated, and their resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN) was evaluated. Meanwhile, the presence of reciprocal genes with <i>GmPP2C-37like</i> was determined by the yeast two-hybrid library screening method. The targeting relationship between <i>GmMYB29</i> and <i>GmPP2C-37like</i> genes was further validated through the Y1H assay and LUC assay. Based on phenotypic assessments of SCN, transgenic soybean roots overexpressing <i>GmPP2C-37like</i> exhibited significantly enhanced resistance to SCN 3 compared to wild-type. Further analysis revealed that <i>GmPP2C-37like</i> collaborates with other regulatory factors to modulate soybean resistance against SCN. Yeast two-hybrid library (Y2H) screening identified 18 interacting proteins. These findings not only illuminate the functional role of <i>GmPP2C-37like</i> but also provide a foundation for dissecting its molecular network. Moreover, the results offer promising candidate genes for enhancing SCN resistance and optimizing soybean resilience through targeted genetic strategies.