This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Scientists from the Biosciences Department at Durham University have outlined possible new approaches to protecting crops from devastating diseases by finding common weaknesses in the proteins pathogens use to attack plants. The researchers presented their ideas in a recent review article in The Plant Journal.
The researchers discuss how disease-causing microbes, including fungi and oomycetes, use special proteins called effectors to weaken plants' natural defenses. Of particular interest are groups of these proteins that share the same three-dimensional shape despite having very different genetic makeups. These groups, known as SUSS (Sequence-Unrelated but Structurally Similar) effector families, challenge the traditional idea that similar-looking proteins always carry out the same functions.
Recent studies have highlighted common features on the surfaces of these effectors that appear important in helping pathogens infect plants. The question is whether emerging AI-based bioengineering technologies could target these potential weak points. Instead of developing crop resistance against one pathogen protein at a time, scientists believe future approaches could target entire groups of related proteins.
This could provide broader and longer-lasting protection because pathogens may find it more difficult to change these shared features without affecting their ability to survive. If true, this could help researchers move toward new methods of controlling plant diseases that threaten global food production. The review also highlights the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and protein design tools in developing future crop protection methods.
AI could help scientists design new molecules that block the vulnerable areas of pathogen proteins or improve plants' ability to recognize and fight infections. The researchers say the approach could eventually help reduce crop losses, improve food security and decrease reliance on chemical treatments. Further work is needed to test whether these ideas can be turned into practical solutions for farmers.
Gregory Knight et al, How to frustrate a plant pathogen, The Plant Journal (2026). DOI: 10.1111/tpj.70971 BA art history, MA material culture. Former museum editor, paramedic, and transplant coordinator.
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