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Hindi Editorial, J Plant Physiol Pathol Vol: 13 Issue: 5
Fungal Pathogen Resistance Genes in Plants: Molecular Shields Against Disease
Dr. Ahmed El-Sayed*
Department of Plant Genetics, Nile Valley University, Egypt
- *Corresponding Author:
- Dr. Ahmed El-Sayed
Department of Plant Genetics, Nile Valley University, Egypt
E-mail: aelsayed@nvu.eg
Received: 01-Sep-2025, Manuscript No. jppp-26-183743; Editor assigned: 4-Sep-2025, Pre-QC No. jppp-26-183743 (PQ); Reviewed: 17-Sep-2025, QC No. jppp-26-183743; Revised: 24-Sep-2025, Manuscript No. jppp-26-183743 (R); Published: 30-Sep-2025, DOI: 10.4172/2329-955X.1000405
Citation: Ahmed E (2025) Fungal Pathogen Resistance Genes in Plants: Molecular Shields Against Disease. J Plant Physiol Pathol 13: 405
Introduction
Fungal pathogens are among the most destructive agents affecting crop plants, causing severe yield losses and threatening global food security. Diseases such as rusts, blights, wilts, and mildews significantly impact agricultural productivity worldwide. To counter these threats, plants have evolved specialized fungal pathogen resistance genes (R genes) that enable early recognition of invading fungi and activation of defense responses. Understanding the structure, function, and regulation of these resistance genes is essential for developing durable disease-resistant crops and reducing dependence on chemical fungicides [1,2].
Discussion
Fungal resistance genes primarily function by recognizing pathogen-derived molecules and triggering plant immune responses. Most characterized R genes belong to the nucleotide-binding site–leucine-rich repeat (NBS-LRR) family. These genes encode proteins that detect specific fungal effectors either directly or indirectly through changes in host target proteins. Upon recognition, R proteins initiate effector-triggered immunity (ETI), a strong defense response often associated with localized cell death known as the hypersensitive response, which restricts pathogen spread [3,4].
In addition to NBS-LRR genes, other classes of resistance genes contribute to fungal defense. Receptor-like kinases (RLKs) and receptor-like proteins (RLPs) located on the plant cell surface recognize conserved fungal components such as chitin fragments. This recognition activates pattern-triggered immunity (PTI), leading to the production of reactive oxygen species, strengthening of cell walls, and expression of defense-related genes. Together, PTI and ETI form a multilayered defense system against fungal invasion [5].
Some resistance genes confer quantitative or partial resistance, which does not completely prevent infection but limits disease severity. These genes often regulate pathways involved in cell wall reinforcement, antimicrobial compound synthesis, and hormonal signaling. Quantitative resistance is generally more durable because it exerts less selective pressure on fungal populations compared to single major R genes.
Advances in genomics and molecular breeding have accelerated the identification and deployment of fungal resistance genes. Marker-assisted selection, genome-wide association studies, and CRISPR-based genome editing enable precise introgression or modification of resistance genes in elite crop varieties. Gene pyramiding, which combines multiple resistance genes into a single cultivar, is widely used to enhance resistance durability and broaden protection against diverse fungal strains.
Conclusion
Fungal pathogen resistance genes play a crucial role in protecting plants from devastating diseases. By recognizing fungal invaders and activating robust immune responses, these genes form the backbone of plant defense systems. Continued research into resistance gene diversity, regulation, and interaction with fungal pathogens will support the development of resilient crop varieties. Harnessing fungal resistance genes through modern breeding and biotechnology is essential for sustainable agriculture, reduced chemical inputs, and long-term food security.
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