Molecular Pathogens 2024, Vol.15, No.5, 237-245 http://microbescipublisher.com/index.php/mp 241 evolution of Xoo can lead to the emergence of strains that can overcome these resistance mechanisms, necessitating ongoing research to identify and characterize new resistance genes (Kumar et al., 2020). Figure 2 Disease life cycle of the rice bacterial blight caused by bacteria- Xoo, including the influence of disease secondary host plant on disease severity (Adopted from Kumar et al., 2020) In comparison, while traditional resistance genes like Xa21 have a proven track record and are relatively easier to deploy in breeding programs, CRISPR technology offers greater flexibility and precision in gene editing. This makes CRISPR a promising tool for future efforts in developing disease-resistant crops. However, the integration of both approaches could potentially offer the most robust solution, combining the broad-spectrum resistance of traditional genes with the precision and adaptability of genome editing technologies. 5.2 Coevolutionary relationship between pathogen mutations and resistance genes The coevolutionary dynamics between rice and Xoo are complex and involve reciprocal adaptations. Studies using genome-wide association strategies have revealed that both rice and Xoo exhibit significant genetic diversity, which drives their coevolution. For example, the identification of 47 Xoo virulence-related genes and 318 rice quantitative resistance genes (QR-genes) highlights the intricate interactions between the host and the pathogen. These interactions often result in a balance where both the pathogen and the host maintain high levels of genetic diversity, leading to dynamic coevolutionary outcomes (Zhang et al., 2021). Additionally, spontaneous mutations in Xoo, such as those affecting glycosyltransferase genes, can confer resistance to phage therapy but also reduce the pathogen's virulence, illustrating the trade-offs involved in pathogen adaptation (Zhang et al., 2020). 5.3 Genetic engineering for durable resistance Achieving durable resistance through genetic engineering involves several design concepts, including the introduction of genetic diversity and the creation of synergistic gene networks. One approach is the pyramiding of
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