Genetically engineered crops against bacterial and fungal diseases: a war of attrition

Abstract

Phytopathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and oomycetes have emerged as serious threats to agricultural productivity and food security. Advancements in molecular and genomics studies have offered an efficient and precise understanding of plant–microbe interactions. These studies have also shed light on key components of plant defense mechanisms and led to the discovery of resistance and susceptibility genes, antimicrobial proteins, and defense signaling molecules. Genetic engineering has paved the way for developing designer crops against various biotic and abiotic factors to improve crop yield. Current information regarding extensive studies in plant–microbe interactions has been employed to engineer resistant crops against pathogens and pests. Here we discuss strategies involved in producing disease-resistant crops and examples of genetically engineered crops against bacterial and fungal pathogens.