Molecular Pathogens 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 227-236 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/mp 231 bacteria like Pantoea dispersa and Enterobacter asburiae have been found to promote plant growth and induce defense-related gene expression, thereby enhancing the plant's resistance to pathogens (Singh et al., 2021). 5.2.2 Recent advances in microbial biocontrol for sugarcane Recent advances in microbial biocontrol have highlighted the potential of using specific bacterial strains to manage sugarcane diseases. For example, Pseudomonas aeruginosa B18 has been identified as a plant growth-promoting bacterium with antagonistic potential against Sporisorium scitamineum, the causative agent of sugarcane smut (Patel et al., 2019). Additionally, the use of diazotrophic bacteria like Pantoea cypripedii and Kosakonia arachidis has been shown to improve nitrogen assimilation and growth in sugarcane, offering a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers. 5.3 Host-plant resistance breeding 5.3.1 Breeding disease-resistant sugarcane varieties Breeding disease-resistant sugarcane varieties is a crucial strategy for managing bacterial diseases. Programs like those at the Obispo Colombres Agroindustrial Experimental Station in Argentina have successfully developed resistant varieties by applying molecular markers to identify genes associated with disease resistance (Racedo et al., 2023). This approach not only helps in reducing the incidence of diseases but also enhances the overall productivity of sugarcane fields. 5.3.2 Genetic engineering approaches for enhanced resistance Genetic engineering offers advanced methods for developing sugarcane varieties with enhanced resistance to bacterial diseases. Techniques such as the introduction of resistance genes through genetic modification can provide long-term solutions to disease management. For instance, the identification and incorporation of genes responsible for resistance to specific pathogens can significantly reduce the impact of diseases like red rot and ratoon stunting disease. These genetically engineered varieties can offer a sustainable and effective means of controlling bacterial diseases in sugarcane. 6 Case Study 6.1 Successful implementation of integrated disease management in brazil In Brazil, sugarcane is a vital crop, and the management of bacterial diseases is crucial for maintaining high yields. One of the significant challenges faced by Brazilian sugarcane growers is Ratoon Stunting Disease (RSD), caused by the bacterium Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli (Lxx). This disease is particularly problematic due to its lack of visually identifiable symptoms and its highly contagious nature, which makes it difficult to manage effectively (Chakraborty et al., 2023). To combat RSD, Brazilian researchers have focused on developing and implementing integrated disease management strategies. These strategies include the use of advanced diagnostic methods to detect the pathogen early. Traditional methods such as microscopic, serological, and molecular-based techniques have been employed, but they often fall short due to their high cost, time consumption, and lack of on-farm applicability. Recent advancements have seen the development of integrated isothermal amplification-based microdevices, which offer a promising solution for accurate and rapid detection of Lxx. These devices combine nano-biosensing with isothermal amplification, providing a more reliable and specific diagnostic tool that can be used directly on farms. Additionally, the use of beneficial microbes has been explored as part of the integrated management approach. Studies have shown that certain diazotrophic bacteria, such as Burkholderia sp. and Enterobacter sp., can promote plant growth and enhance sugarcane resilience against environmental stresses. These bacteria have been tested for their tolerance to adverse conditions and their ability to promote plant growth when inoculated in sugarcane. While some bacteria like Stenotrophomonas sp. and Pantoea sp. showed tolerance to salinity and pesticides, they did not significantly increase dry matter production. In contrast, Burkholderia sp. and Enterobacter sp. were more effective in promoting plant growth despite being more sensitive to environmental stresses (Lima et al., 2018).
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==