The infective juveniles of cyst and root-knot nematodes invade plant roots close to the root tip in the zone of elongation. We have demonstrated that indole compounds, including the phytohormone IAA rapidly affect the surface coat of nematodes and their behaviour, including their location of roots and migration within root tissues. Research aims to test the hypotheses that indole compounds, including some phytohormones are perceived by nematodes as host cues and that indole compounds induce changes in gene expression associated with host recognition processes. Uplift funding aims to identify novel genes that may be used in chemical or genetic interventions for nematode control and the effects of plant exudates on nematode behaviour. BBSRC competitive funding for the sequencing of the genome of the potato cyst nematode, Globodera pallida (BB/F00043X/1), will be used to identify genes that affect changes in the surface coat of nematodes and alter behaviour and the attachment of infective spores of microbial natural enemies.