Cite This Article as: Malook MB and Khalid MN, 2023. Plant pathology in genome era new insight into disease resistance. Trends in Animal and Plant Sciences 2: 62-70. https://doi.org/10.62324/TAPS/2023.018

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The field of plant pathology has undergone a transformative evolution, transitioning from traditional, labor-intensive methods to the genomic era marked by significant advancements in molecular biology and computational sciences. This shift has revolutionized our understanding of plant diseases and disease resistance. Genomics, particularly Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and CRISPR-Cas systems, has played a central role in this transformation. NGS has allowed for comprehensive genome and transcriptome analysis, facilitating the identification of disease resistance genes and the study of gene expression during pathogen attacks. CRISPR-Cas systems have enabled precise genome editing, contributing to our understanding of disease resistance mechanisms and the development of disease-resistant plant varieties. While these advancements offer exciting prospects, they also come with challenges, including data analysis complexity, off-target effects, and ethical considerations. Nevertheless, the genomic era of plant pathology promises to reshape agriculture and disease management, offering sustainable solutions to crop losses and food security challenges. The integration of genomics in plant pathology has revolutionized our understanding of plant-pathogen interactions and disease resistance mechanisms. This article highlights the significance of genomics in various aspects of plant pathology, from the study of microbial communities through metagenomics to the identification and manipulation of disease resistance genes. The use of technologies like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and CRISPR-Cas systems has enabled precise genome analysis and editing, facilitating the development of disease-resistant crop varieties. However, challenges such as regulatory approval, genetic erosion, climate change, and ethical considerations must be addressed. Despite these challenges, genomics offers promising opportunities to enhance crop disease resistance and ensure global food security in the face of evolving pathogens and changing environments. Collaboration between researchers, breeders, policymakers, and capacity building in developing countries will be essential to fully leverage the potential of genomics in agriculture.