Molecular Pathogens 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 106-118 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/mp 115 from diverse genetic sources, including wild relatives of wheat, can significantly enhance the genetic diversity of resistance traits in breeding programs (Mondal et al., 2016; Mapuranga et al., 2022). This genetic diversity is crucial for developing varieties that can withstand the continuous evolution of pathogen populations. Moreover, the use of pathogen-informed breeding strategies, which leverage knowledge of pathogen biology and host-pathogen interactions, can lead to the development of more effective resistance genes. For instance, the use of pathogen effector proteins to identify resistance resources and inform cultivar deployment has shown promise in developing durable resistance (Li et al., 2020). These strategies can be further enhanced by incorporating insights from systems biology and functional genomics, providing a comprehensive understanding of the molecular basis of disease resistance (Lowe et al., 2011). The future of molecular breeding for durable resistance in wheat lies in the integration of emerging technologies, traditional breeding methods, and a deep understanding of host-pathogen interactions. By leveraging these approaches, researchers can develop new resistant varieties that are not only effective against current pathogen populations but also resilient to future challenges posed by evolving diseases. 8 Implications for Global Wheat Production 8.1 Enhancing food security The integration of molecular breeding techniques in developing durable resistance to wheat diseases has profound implications for global food security. Wheat is a staple food for a significant portion of the world's population, providing essential nutrients and calories. However, wheat production is frequently threatened by various pests and diseases, which can lead to substantial yield losses and, consequently, food insecurity (Babu et al., 2020; Deng et al., 2020; Luo et al., 2023). By employing advanced genetic tools such as marker-assisted selection, genome editing, and gene pyramiding, researchers have been able to develop wheat cultivars with enhanced resistance to multiple pathogens (Mondal et al., 2016; Luo et al., 2023). These resistant varieties are crucial in maintaining stable wheat production, especially in regions prone to severe disease outbreaks. The development of wheat lines with durable resistance to diseases like rusts and Fusarium head blight (FHB) ensures a more reliable food supply. For instance, the successful deployment of multiple resistance genes in wheat has shown promise in mitigating the impact of evolving pathogen races, thereby reducing the risk of large-scale crop failures (Johnson, 2004; Mondal et al., 2023). This stability in wheat production is essential for meeting the growing global demand for food, driven by increasing population and changing consumption patterns (Mondal et al., 2016). Moreover, the use of molecular breeding techniques accelerates the breeding process, allowing for the rapid introduction of resistant varieties into agricultural systems, further enhancing food security (Nelson et al., 2017; Babu et al., 2020). 8.2 Economic benefits The economic benefits of developing wheat cultivars with durable disease resistance are multifaceted. Resistant varieties reduce the need for chemical inputs such as fungicides and pesticides, leading to significant cost savings for farmers (Maré et al., 2020; Mapuranga et al., 2022; Luo et al., 2023). The reduction in chemical usage not only lowers production costs but also minimizes the environmental and health risks associated with pesticide exposure. Additionally, the stability in wheat yields provided by resistant varieties ensures a more predictable income for farmers, reducing the economic uncertainty associated with crop losses due to disease outbreaks (Nelson et al., 2017; Deng et al., 2020). The adoption of molecular breeding techniques can enhance the overall efficiency of wheat breeding programs. High-throughput phenotyping, genome sequencing, and genomic selection are promising approaches that maximize progeny screening and selection, thereby accelerating genetic gains in breeding more productive and resilient varieties (Mondal et al., 2016; Babu et al., 2020). This increased efficiency translates into faster development and deployment of improved wheat cultivars, which can boost overall agricultural productivity and profitability. The economic benefits extend beyond individual farmers to the broader agricultural sector, contributing to national and global economies by ensuring a stable supply of wheat, a critical commodity in international trade (Luo et al., 2023).
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