Plant disease resistance

Plant disease resistance refers to the ability of a plant to prevent or mitigate the damage caused by pathogens. This resistance can be innate or acquired, and it is a key aspect of plant pathology and agriculture.

Types of Resistance

There are two main types of plant disease resistance: vertical and horizontal.

Vertical Resistance

Vertical resistance, also known as specific resistance, is governed by a single gene in the plant. This type of resistance is highly effective against a specific strain of a pathogen, but it is often overcome by the evolution of the pathogen.

Horizontal Resistance

Horizontal resistance, also known as general resistance, is governed by multiple genes in the plant. This type of resistance is less effective against a specific strain of a pathogen, but it is more durable because it is harder for the pathogen to overcome.

Mechanisms of Resistance

Plants have several mechanisms to resist diseases, including physical barriers, chemical defenses, and immune responses.

Physical Barriers

The first line of defense in plants is physical barriers such as the cuticle, cell wall, and bark. These barriers prevent pathogens from entering the plant.

Chemical Defenses

Plants produce a variety of chemical compounds that can inhibit the growth of pathogens or kill them outright. These compounds include phytoalexins, pathogenesis-related proteins, and antimicrobial peptides.

Immune Responses

Plants have a sophisticated immune system that can recognize and respond to pathogens. This system involves the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), and the activation of defense responses such as the production of reactive oxygen species and the strengthening of the cell wall.

Breeding for Resistance

Plant breeding for disease resistance is a major focus of agricultural research. This involves the identification of resistance genes in wild relatives or old cultivars of crops, and the introduction of these genes into modern cultivars through crossbreeding or genetic engineering.

See Also

• Plant pathology
• Agriculture
• Plant breeding
• Genetic engineering

References

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