Understanding the Powdery Mildew Pathogen and Rapeseed Mustard Interactions: Insights into Disease Resistance and Molecular Mechanisms to Enhance the Quality and Productivity of Oilseed Brassica Crops

Abstract

The quantity and quality of oilseed production in rapeseed mustard are severely affected by biotic and abiotic stresses. Among these, the biotrophic fungus Erysiphe cruciferarum causes powdery mildew (PM) infection in Indian mustard cultivars, potentially reducing yield by up to 50% across affected regions in India. Considering recent developments in molecular plant pathology and their impact on sustainable management of challenging plant pathogens, this article reviews the current scenario for resistance and its mechanism to E. cruciferarum in Brassica cultivars. It also covers the complex molecular signaling pathways for resistance that are regulated by phytohormones along with differential gene expression, and effectors proteins in Brassica spp. The recent advancements in genomics have contributed to identification of resistance/susceptibility genes as well as quantitative trait loci (QTLs) involved in PM resistance. Furthermore, this review unfolds a comprehensive understanding of the genetic as well as genomic basis of resistance that can provide the valuable insights for breeding programs focused on developing PM-resistant rapeseed-mustard varieties. This review aims to provide the background on recent discoveries and future strategies on identification of resistance genes, aiding in the development of more resilient rapeseed-mustard crops and leading to significant improvements in crop protection and yield stability.