Epigenetic modification plays a crucial role in shaping plant-pathogen interactions, influencing both the activation of defense responses and the suppression of host immunity by pathogens. Mechanisms such as DNA methylation, histone acetylation, and the action of non-coding RNAs are involved in regulating key genes associated with resistance and susceptibility. Understanding these processes can lead to novel strategies for disease management, including the development of resistant crop varieties through marker-assisted selection or CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, and novel target-based fungicide development.

Currently, while we know that epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA-mediated regulation occur during plant-pathogen interactions, the full scope of these modifications is not well-characterized. For example, we do not comprehensively understand which specific genes are epigenetically regulated in response to different types of pathogens (viruses, bacteria, fungi, etc.). This lack of knowledge hampers our ability to fully comprehend the molecular mechanisms underlying plant defense and pathogen virulence.

The primary goal of this research topic is to explore the role of epigenetic modifications in plant-pathogen interactions, elucidate the underlying mechanisms, and investigate how these insights can be leveraged for effective disease management. By integrating knowledge from molecular biology, genetics, and ecology, this research aims to advance our understanding of how plants defend against pathogens at the epigenetic level and develop innovative strategies for crop protection.

This topic aims to explore the multifaceted roles that epigenetic modifications play in regulating plant defense responses against pathogens. It seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms by which both plants and pathogens employ epigenetic strategies to influence the outcome of their interactions. Additionally, this topic aims to translate these findings into practical applications for enhancing disease resistance and improving crop management.

This Research Topic invites contributions that address the following specific themes:

1. How epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNAs) regulate key genes involved in plant immunity;

2. Identification and characterization of pathogen effectors that target host epigenetic machinery, and molecular mechanisms by which pathogens alter host chromatin structure and gene expression;

3. Mechanisms of transgenerational inheritance of epigenetic modifications related to disease resistance;

4. Application of epigenetic knowledge to develop resistant crop varieties through breeding or biotechnology;

5. Novel techniques for studying epigenetic modifications in plants and pathogens.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Epigenetic modification in plant-pathogen interactions: Role, Mechanism, Disease Management