Disease resistance - Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic

What is disease resistance?

Disease resistance refers to the ability of a plant to restrict, slow, or withstand the progression of a pathogen or insect that could cause disease. There are several types of disease resistance in plants:

• Horizontal resistance - provides resistance to multiple strains of a pathogen species. It is controlled by multiple genes and so is more durable.
• Vertical resistance - protects the plant from specific strains of a pathogen. It is controlled by one or a few genes so can be less durable.
• Qualitative resistance - resistance that functions in a all-or-none manner. The plant is immune to a pathogen strain or susceptible.
• Quantitative resistance - incomplete resistance where disease severity is reduced but infection still occurs. There is a continuous variation in resistance amongst varieties.

Breeding for disease resistance is key for developing improved crop varieties. Breeders utilise several approaches:

• Introgress resistance genes from wild crop relatives into elite lines
• Pyramid multiple resistance genes to make more durable resistance
• Use marker assisted selection to more easily combine resistance genes

Novel genomic tools like CRISPR also provide opportunities to engineer resistance. However, diseases evolve so there is an arms race between crops and pathogens. Multi-pronged integrated disease management is key.

At Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic() Hormone Clinic, our experts stay on top of the latest science in genetics, genomics and breeding. We provide customised hormone treatment plans to help you fight disease and optimise wellness. Our holistic plans consider your unique biochemical individuality. Reach out today to learn more!

What other aspects of plant disease resistance would you like to learn about? Do you use integrated approaches on your farm? Please share your experiences in the comments!