Advances in Viral Pathogenesis and Control in Plants: A Review

Abstract

Plant viral diseases pose a significant threat to global agriculture, leading to substantial yield losses and affecting food security. Advances in viral pathogenesis and control have been driven by a combination of traditional and modern approaches. This review highlights key areas of progress, including virus-host interactions, molecular mechanisms of viral replication, and host immune responses. Traditional control methods, such as crop rotation, sanitation, and vector management, remain foundational but face limitations due to the evolving nature of plant viruses. Breeding for genetic resistance, while effective, is challenged by the rapid adaptation of viral pathogens. The emergence of biotechnological strategies, such as RNA interference (RNAi), CRISPR/Cas systems, and the development of transgenic plants, has provided novel tools for enhancing resistance. Furthermore, molecular diagnostics, including PCR and next-generation sequencing (NGS), have revolutionized virus detection, enabling precise and early diagnosis. The integration of omics approaches-genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics-has facilitated a plant-virus interactions, while synthetic biology and systems biology are opening new frontiers in engineering virus-resistant crops. Climate change exacerbates the challenge by altering virus spread, vector dynamics, and host susceptibility, necessitating adaptive strategies. Emerging and re-emerging plant viruses underscore the need for robust surveillance and biosecurity measures, emphasizing the role of international collaboration in controlling these threats.