Genetics of plant disease and resistance

This chapter summarizes the basics of the genetics of plant resistance and plant susceptibility to diseases. It starts with gene structure and function, explains the basis of genetic variability, and then focuses on the plant side of the genetic interaction of plants and their pathogens. It further distinguishes diverse types of plant disease resistance and susceptibility and explains their inheritance and durability. It further takes a brief look at how the genotype-environment interaction influences resistance or disease progression. The chapter touches on the coevolution of plants and pathogens as one driver of genetic diversity. Finally, we summarize traditional and modern strategies of breeding for plant disease resistance that supports the exploitation of genetic resistance loci independent of targeted genetic modification, which is discussed in other chapters.