2.1. Harnessing Genomics for Enhancing Rice Disease Resistance
QTL linkage mapping is one of methods for identifying genomic regions involving the construction of genetic maps that link phenotypic traits, such as disease resistance, to molecular markers or genes located on several or specific chromosomes. The breakthrough in the characterization of quantitative traits to select for QTLs was the development of molecular markers used for construction of linkage maps for diverse crop species [
7]. Linkage maps have been utilized for identifying chromosomal regions that contain genes controlling simple traits or quantitative traits governed by QTL [
8]. Advantages of linkage mapping include high statistical power to effectively identify regions of genome associated with the target trait [
9]; trait specific, which allows to map complex traits like disease resistance [
10,
11]; and identification of linkage with functional variation such as genetic polymorphism, gene expression changes or epigenetic modifications, which can provide valuable information on the underlying mechanisms behind the trait variation [
8]. Lastly, the method is suitable for diverse populations such as F
2, backcross, and recombinant inbred lines (RILs) [
8]. However, QTL studies necessitate large sample sizes due to their reliance on statistical power to detect small genetic effects and can only map differences observed between parents, as it is improbable for every genetic locus contributing to a variation to harbor segregating alleles of major effect within the populations [
10,
12]. Also, the limited genetic diversity within a biparental population may not fully capture the complexity of trait variation and restrict the detection of QTLs present in a broader genetic backgorund [
12].
The transition from QTL mapping to Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) represents a pivotal shift in the field of genetics research. This transition signifies a more comprehensive and high-resolution approach, enabling the detection of subtle genetic variations linked to complex traits. GWAS have emerged as pivotal tools in unravelling the genetic basis of plant disease resistance. It is a powerful genetic investigation aiming to identify associations between specific genetic variations, such as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and particular traits, such as disease resistance, within a population [
13]. Advanced statistical methods are employed to assess the frequency of genetic variations relative to controls to pinpoint variations that are significantly more prevalent in individuals with the trait of interest [
14]. By examining genomic datasets, GWAS enable researchers to identify specific genetic variations associated with resistance traits, paving the way for more precise and effective crop breeding strategies to increase disease resistance. Studies have successfully pinpointed genomic regions associated with disease resistance, aiding in the development of resistant crop varieties. For instance, a study highlighted the power of GWAS in identifying genetic loci for resistance to bacterial leaf streak and rice black-streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV) [
15,
16]. A comprehensive GWAS was conducted on 236 diverse rice accessions, predominantly indica varieties, revealing 12 QTLs across chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, and 11 that confer resistance against five distinct Thai isolates of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc) [
15]. Notably, five QTLs exhibited resistance against multiple Xoc isolates, with qBLS5.1 and qBLS2.3 and xa5 gene being highlighted as a potential candidate gene associated with qBLS5.1, while three genes for, pectinesterase inhibitor (OsPEI), eukaryotic zinc-binding protein (OsRAR1), and NDP epimerase function were proposed as candidate genes for qBLS2.3 [
15]. Identifion of these influential genetic factors associated with broad-spectrum resistance potential highlightsit’s the significance of GWAS in rice breeding programs targeting BLS resistance. In addition, a study evaluated RBSDV resistance in 1,953 rice accessions over three years, revealing lower disease incidences in the Xian/indica (XI) subgroup compared to the Geng/japonica (GJ) subgroup, where single-locus GWAS, which scrutinized individual variants at specific genomic sites, identified ten genomic regions [
16]. Additionally, a multilocus GWAS which considering multiple genetic variants across genome, pinpointed five genomic regions linked to RBSDV resistance[
16]. From reported regions, grRBSDV-6.1 and grRBSDV-6.3, haplotype analysis indicated that specific candidate genes, LOC_Os06g03150 in grRBSDV-6.1 and LOC_Os06g31190 in grRBSDV-6.3 , were associated with resistance differentiation in addition to three novel resistance regions (grRBSDV-1.1, grRBSDV-7.1, and grRBSDV-9.1) identified [
16]. These findings provide valuable insights for breeding RBSDV-resistant rice varieties and serves as a compelling demonstration of the efficacy of GWAS in deciphering the genetic architecture of plant defense mechanism and identifying pivotal genes and pathways involved in plant’s response to pathogens.
While QTL mapping is ideal for in-depth studies of a few traits, Bulk Segregant Analysis (BSA) is advantageous for screening multiple traits in large populations, making it a valuable tool in broader genetic studies. BSA is a powerful tool in plant genetics that helps identify genetic markers associated with specific traits, such as disease resistance, with lower cost. This technique accelerates the process of locating genomic regions linked to resistance genes. As described by Majeed et al. in 2022, it is a high-throughput QTL mapping approach that rapidly pinpoints genomic loci regulating a trait of interest, which involves pooling individuals exhibiting extreme trait phenotypes, creating bulks, and then subjecting these bulks to genome-wide analyses [
17]. BSA has proven invaluable in various fields, allowing researchers to efficiently unravel the genetic basis of complex traits. Recent advancements in genomic sequencing have given rise to QTL-seq, an innovative next-generation sequencing based BSA technique. Unlike conventional QTL mapping approaches, QTL-seq offers superior resolution and efficiency in pinpointing genetic markers linked to quantitative traits by leveraging high-throughput sequencing technologies to sequence bulks of individuals with contrasting trait phenotypes, enabling researchers to pinpoint candidate QTLs with remarkable precision [
18,
19]. It has been instrumental in identifying genomic regions associated with resistance to various diseases in rice, such as bacterial panicle blight (BPB) and dirty panicle disease [
20,
21]. QTL-seq, in combination with traditional mapping, identified a major QTL for BPB resistance on the upper arm of chromosome 3 containing three genes associated with defense (OsMADS50, OsDEF8 and OsCEBiP) [
20]. With the same approach, three QTLs (qDP1, qDP9, and qDP10) were identified to be significantly associated with resistance to dirty panicle disease, which contain genes encoding PR-proteins, subtilisin-like protease, and ankyrin repeat proteins [
21]. This approach has gained popularity due to its ability to handle larger populations efficiently and its potential to uncover complex trait variations. Also, it is a rapid and effective approach for identifying genetic loci involved in plant disease resistance, facilitating the development of resistant cultivars.
Furthermore, genome sequencing has transformed our understanding of plant disease resistance, uncovering intricate genetic details that underpin the plant's ability to fend off pathogens. It led to the discovery of various disease resistance genes in other crop systems. In legumes, Kankanala et al. (2019) delves into the genomics of resistance to various plant pathogens at the genomic level [
22]. It provides insights into the molecular basis of different levels of host defense observed in both resistant and susceptible interactions by summarizing large-scale genomic studies, shedding light on host genetics changes and enhancing our understanding of plant-pathogen dynamics [
22]. It is not only instrumental in identifying existing disease resistance genes, but also in enhancing plant immunity through genome editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9. Targeted mutagenesis of genes involved in disease resistance has led to the development of crops resistant to various pathogens, ensuring higher yields and reduced dependence on chemical pesticides [
23]. In addition, comparative genome analysis among different plant species, scientists gain insights into evolutionary aspects of disease resistance genes, aiding in the development of robust, broad-spectrum resistance [
24]. This approach is particularly vital in understanding the diverse responses of organisms to pathogens and environmental pressures [
25]. As it offers a robust framework for identifying genetic variations linked to resistance, including precise markers and mutations, this approach leads to a refined understanding of resistance dynamics and in formulating tailored disease management strategies.
2.2. Harnessing Transcriptomics to Safeguard Rice against Disease
Transcriptome profiling involves studying the complete set of RNA transcripts derived from the genome under specific circumstances. During a plant-pathogen interaction, changes in gene expression patterns play a crucial role in defense responses. Various techniques such as RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) and microarray analysis are employed to profile transcriptomes. These technologies enable researchers to quantify gene expression levels, identify alternative splicing events, and detect non-coding RNAs. RNA-seq has been extensively utilized in studying rice diseases to unravel the molecular mechanisms underlying pathogen resistance and susceptibility. Numerous studies have employed RNA-seq to analyze gene expression changes, identify differentially expressed genes, and uncover pathways involved in rice immunity against various pathogens. By utilizing this approach, defense-related genes, such as
PR1b, transcription factor gene
OsWRKY30, and
PAL genes (
OsPAL1 and
OsPAL6), and pathways like the phenylalanine metabolic pathway, alkaloid biosynthesis pathways (tropane, piperidine, and pyridine), and plant hormone signal transduction pathways were identified from a sheath blight resistant cultivar, suggesting the early activation of a SB-induced defense system [
26]. Similarly, a study on the enhanced rice Xa7-mediated bacterial blight resistance at high temperature found that the enhanced Xa7-mediated resistance at high temperature is not dependent on salicylic acid signaling [
27]. A DNA sequence motif similar to known abscisic acid-responsive cis-regulatory elements was also identified in the same study, suggesting that the plant hormone abscisic acid is an important node for crosstalk between plant transcriptional response pathways to high temperature stress and pathogen attack [
27].
Transcriptome profiling during plant-pathogen interactions reveals the activation of specific signaling pathways. For example, genes encoding cellular components associated with defense mechanisms, such as pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, receptor-like kinases (RLKs), and transcription factors, show significant expression changes in the process of a plant-pathogen interaction[
28,
29]. Transcriptome analysis also unravels complex regulatory networks involved in plant immunity. By identifying key regulatory genes and their targets, scientists can construct intricate networks governing plant defense responses. In addition, like genomics, comparative transcriptomics involves comparing the transcriptomes of different plant varieties, genotypes, or species in response to pathogen attack by highlighting conserved defense mechanisms and revealing unique responses specific to certain plants. A comparative transcriptome analysis revealed that
Rhizoctonia solani AG1 IA infection activated numerous resistance pathways in rice, involving diverse genes in defense response and signal transduction highlighting complex regulation of rice's pathogen response by multiple gene networks [
30]. Also, it revealed significant activation of metabolic pathways linked to resistance, particularly emphasizing the biosynthesis of jasmonic acid and phenylalanine metabolism [
30]. These comparisons enrich our understanding of plant-pathogen coevolution and offer valuable insights for crop breeding programs. This, in return, provides a wealth of information about the molecular mechanisms underlying plant defense responses and aids in deciphering intricate gene regulatory networks and identify potential targets, thereby offering crucial insights for enhancing crop improvement strategies.
2.3. Harnessing Proteomics for Fortifying Rice against Disease
Proteomic studies have also played a pivotal role in unravelling plant immune responses. Analysis of plant proteome makes it possible to identify key proteins involved in defense pathways and elucidate their functional mechanism. It sheds another light on the complex interactions between plants and pathogens. By comparing protein profiles between infected and uninfected plants, pathogen-responsive proteins have been identified, which include defense-related proteins such as pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, chitinases, and protease inhibitors [
31]. Additionally, proteomics has revealed the modification of host proteins by pathogens to facilitate infection, providing valuable insights into the arms race between plants and pathogens [
31].
Techniques such as mass spectrometry (MS) and gel-based methods have been instrumental in characterizing plant defense mechanisms. Advancement in MS and protein isolation techniques have advanced the understanding of subcellular proteomes during plant-pathogen interactions [
32]. Proteomic analyses have revealed key proteins pivotal in pathogen recognition, signaling pathways, and metabolic adjustments to combat plant diseases. Notably, receptor-like kinases (RLKs), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and proteins associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling, hormone modulation, photosynthesis, secondary metabolism, protein degradation, and defense responses have been identified in a rice-
Magnaporthe oryzae interaction [
32]. Furthermore, proteomics has been employed to identify proteins involved in the lesion mimic associated with program cell death in rice upon biotic or abiotic stimulus [
33]. The study by Yong et al. (2021) revealed several differentially expressed proteins, mainly associated with metabolic and cellular processes, notably including resistance-related proteins such as 14-3-3 proteins,
OsPR10, and antioxidases in lesion mimic leaves [
33]. This study also elucidated the autoimmunity mechanism in rice [
33].
Proteomics has also facilitated the exploration of plant-microbe crosstalk. A recent study delved into the identification and profiling of low-abundant proteins in both compatible and incompatible interactions between rice and
Xanthomonas oryzae pv.
oryzae (
Xoo), utilizing a protamine-sulfate-based method to enrich these proteins, which was followed by their identification and quantification through label-free quantitative proteomics [
34]. In incompatible interactions, there was a notable increase in the accumulation of protein kinases, including calcium-dependent protein kinases, PTI1-like tyrosine-protein kinase 1, protein kinase domain-containing protein, and serine/threonine-protein kinase, suggesting their pivotal role in signal transduction for the initiation of immunity in rice [
34]. Additionally, mitochondrial arginase-1 encoded by
OsArg1 demonstrated heightened abundance in the incompatible interaction with
Xoo [
34]. The elevated expression of OsArg1 significantly bolstered rice resistance against
Xoo, enhancing the expression of defense-related genes such as Chitinase II, Glucanase I, and PR1, which indicates the involvement of this protein in
Xoo resistance [
34]. As a follow-up report, a comprehensive proteome profile was generated elucidating the interaction between rice and
Xoo, uncovering the proteome changes in the rice cultivars and highlight the functions of
OsARG1 in plant defense against
Xoo. [
35].
By studying defense responses elicited by bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens, researchers have unravelled proteins specifically involved in these interactions. Furthermore, comparative proteomics analysis significantly contributes to the study of the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying rice disease resistance. By comparing the protein profiles of susceptible and resistant rice cultivars, researchers have identified various proteins associated with disease resistance pathways, including those involved in signal transduction, defense responses, and metabolic processes [
36,
37,
38] . Proteomics approach also revealed novel insights into the interaction between rice and
Xoo. In this study, most of the differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) in
Xoo were related to pathogen virulence, which included the outer member proteins, type III secretion system proteins, TonB-dependent receptors, and transcription activator-like effectors [
38]. These DAPs were less abundant in the incompatible interaction and, in thi condition, DAPs in rice were mainly involved in secondary metabolic processes, including phenylalanine metabolism and the biosynthesis of flavonoids and phenylpropanoids [
38]. This indicates that during incompatible interaction, the rice prevents pathogen invasion and initiate multi-component defense responses.
This knowledge gained from proteomic studies is pivotal for developing strategies to enhance crop resistance against diverse pathogens and provides valuable insights into the dynamic changes occurring at the proteome level during pathogen challenge, shedding light on potential targets for enhancing rice resistance against pathogens. Overall, proteomics serves as a powerful tool for deciphering the molecular basis of rice disease resistance and holds promise for informing strategies to improve technologies for crop protection and agricultural sustainability.
2.4. Harnessing Metabolomics for Bolstering Rice Disease Resistance
Metabolomics studies on rice disease resistance involve the comprehensive analysis of metabolites present in different parts of the plant, such as leaves, roots, and seeds, under various conditions. By employing techniques such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) to detect and quantify metabolites profiles of diseased and healthy plants, specific metabolites associated with disease resistance can be identified. These metabolites serve as crucial biomarkers, shedding light on the biochemical pathways involved in plant defense mechanisms [
39].
Metabolomics studies have successfully linked changes in primary or specialized metabolism to plant defense responses. For instance, proteomic analysis of
Xoo-secreted proteins, in vitro and in planta, sheds light on the diverse functions and expression patterns of these proteins during rice bacterial blight infection [
40]. The comprehensive proteomic analysis conducted in this study identified 109 unique proteins, elucidating their diverse roles in crucial biological processes such as metabolism, nutrient uptake, pathogenicity, and host defense mechanisms and the observed correlation between protein and transcript abundances unveils the intricate regulatory mechanisms governing protein secretion during in planta infection [
40]. In addition, the investigation reveals the potential of transgenic rice expressing these specific secretory proteins to influence cell death signaling, underscoring their pivotal role in pathogenicity [
40]. This research significantly advances our understanding of rice bacterial blight disease and provides valuable insights for the development of disease-resistant rice varieties. Furthermore, a study using metabolomics techniques found differences in metabolite accumulation between resistant and susceptible rice plants when exposed to
Xoo infection [
41]. Specifically, plants expressing the
XA21 gene differed from wild-type plants, exhibiting elevated levels of sugar alcohols, tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) intermediates, and various other compounds before treatment [
41]. Following the inoculation of
Xoo strain PXO99,
XA21-expressing plants displayed increased levels of responsive metabolites, such as rutin, pigments, fatty acids, lipids, and arginine, which likely play roles in polyamine biosynthesis and alkaloid metabolism [
41]. Additionally, metabolomic analyses have revealed the role of secondary metabolites, such as phenolic compounds and terpenoids, in bolstering plant immunity, which paved the way for developing strategies to enhance the production of disease resistant crops [
42]. The same approach was used to identify metabolite levels in rice lines during
Rhizoctonia solani infection using CE/TOF-mass spectrophotometry in positive ion mode where alterations in metabolite levels in inoculated resistant and susceptible rice were examined along the tricarboxylic acid and glycolysis pathways, revealing ten metabolites that were differentially regulated [
43]. Notably, chlorogenic acid exhibited increased levels in 32R, a resistant line, while 29S, the susceptible line, pipecolic acid exhibited the highest fold change and significance level and eight amino acids (i.e. glutamate, γ-aminobutyric acid, glycine, histidine, phenylalanine, serine, tryptophan, and tyrosine) displayed elevated levels [
43]. These metabolomic signatures often include alterations in the levels of amino acids, organic acids, sugars, and secondary metabolites, which play crucial roles in plant defense mechanisms.
Metabolomics studies have provided valuable insights into the metabolic pathways and key metabolites involved in rice disease resistance. Analyses have revealed the accumulation of defense-related metabolites, such as phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and phytoalexins, in response to pathogen attack. Furthermore, metabolomics approaches have facilitated the identification of metabolic quantitative trait loci (mQTLs) associated with disease resistance, providing valuable targets for breeding programs aimed at developing resistant rice varieties [
44]. However, data integration, standardization of analytical techniques, and the functional validation of identified metabolites are remaining areas for active research [
45]. Moving forward, continued advancements in metabolomics technologies and methodologies hold promise for further elucidation of the complex mechanisms underlying rice disease resistance and acceleration of the development of resilient rice varieties.