Plant–Pathogen Interactions in Cereal Crops

Dear Colleagues,

Cereal crops such as wheat, oat, barley, rice, and maize are fundamental to global food security, yet they are constantly threatened by a wide range of pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes. Plant–pathogen interactions in cereals are complex, involving molecular signalling, defence responses, and pathogen strategies to overcome plant immunity. Understanding these interactions is essential for developing sustainable strategies to manage diseases and ensure crop productivity under changing environmental conditions.

Recent advances in genomics, transcriptomics and other omics technologies have opened new avenues to dissect the mechanisms underlying host resistance and pathogen virulence. At the same time, climate change and evolving pathogen populations pose new challenges that require innovative approaches. This Special Issue of Plants aims to highlight cutting-edge research on the biology of plant–pathogen interactions in cereal crops, including molecular signalling, defence responses, pathogen adaptation, and the role of beneficial microbes. Contributions addressing integrated disease management, breeding for resistance, and biotechnological interventions are also encouraged.

By bringing together studies from diverse disciplines, this Special Issue seeks to provide a comprehensive view of current knowledge and future directions in cereal crop pathology, fostering collaboration and innovation to safeguard global food systems.

Dr. Gracia Montilla-Bascon
Dr. Francisco José Canales Castilla
Guest Editors

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