Molecular Basis of Disease Resistance and Perspectives on Breeding Strategies for Resistance Improvement in Crops

ABSTRACT Crop diseases are major factors responsible for substantial yield losses worldwide, which affects global food security. The use of resistance (R) genes is an effective and sustainable approach to controlling crop diseases. Here, we review recent advances in R gene studies in crops and wild species. We discuss our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying R gene activation and signaling, and susceptibility (S) gene-mediated resistance in crops. We also propose new strategies for R gene discovery, balancing resistance and yield, and generating crops with broad-spectrum disease resistance. With the rapid development of new genome-editing technologies and the availability of crop genome sequences, the goal of breeding next-generation crops with durable resistance to pathogens is now achievable, and is a key step toward increasing crop production in a sustainable way.