Recent Advances in Phage-Plant Interactions

Dear Colleagues,

Bacteriophages (phages) have gained increasing attention as promising biocontrol agents for plant pathogens, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemical pesticides. Recent research has uncovered new insights into the intricate interactions between phages and the plant microbiome, paving the way for the development of effective phage-based strategies to combat plant diseases. One key area of progress has been the characterization of phage-mediated interactions with plant-associated bacteria, both pathogenic and beneficial. Researchers have also explored the mechanisms by which phages can modulate plant immunity and enhance disease resistance, with certain phages found to induce systemic acquired resistance in plants, priming their defenses against subsequent pathogen challenges. In the realm of application, successful phage-based treatments have been demonstrated in both greenhouse and field settings, effectively controlling bacterial diseases in various crop plants. The ability to isolate and characterize phages from a local plant microbiome has facilitated the development of tailored phage cocktails that are better suited to target environments. As the field continues to evolve, the integration of phage technology with other plant protection tools holds promise for a comprehensive solution to the challenges faced by modern agriculture, paving the way for sustainable and environmentally friendly plant disease management. The proposed Special Issue will attract a diverse audience of researchers and professionals working on various aspects of plant pathology, virology, microbiology, agriculture, and biotechnology.

Prof. Dr. Bin Li
Dr. Temoor Ahmed
Guest Editors

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• bacteriophages
• phage–plant interactions
• biocontrol agents
• plant pathogenic bacteria
• selective targeting
• systemic acquired resistance
• tailored phage cocktails
• integrated disease management
• plant disease resistance
• plant–pathogen interactions
• nanopesticides