Integrating Plant Immunity and Ecological Strategies for Sustainable Disease Management

Dear Colleagues,

Plant diseases remain one of the most pressing threats to global food security and agricultural sustainability. With the increasing challenges posed by emerging pathogens, climate change, and reduced efficacy of traditional chemical controls, it is imperative to develop innovative strategies that integrate plant immunity with ecological approaches for disease management.

Plant immunity research has advanced our understanding of host–pathogen interactions at the molecular, cellular, and physiological levels, revealing complex defense mechanisms ranging from pathogen-triggered immunity to systemic acquired resistance. Meanwhile, ecological control emphasizes the utilization of biodiversity, beneficial microbes, natural products, and agro-ecological practices to reduce disease incidence while promoting environmental sustainability. The integration of these two perspectives offers a holistic pathway toward durable crop protection and resilient agroecosystems.

This Special Issue is dedicated to original research and review articles covering all aspects of plant immunity and ecological disease control, including but not limited to molecular mechanisms of plant defense, host–pathogen co-evolution, microbiome-mediated resistance, ecological interactions shaping plant health, and plant disease indentification and sustainable strategies for its protection. By bringing together insights from molecular biology, ecology, and applied agriculture, this issue aims to foster cross-disciplinary dialogue and contribute to the development of innovative and environmentally friendly solutions for plant disease management.

Prof. Dr. Xianchao Sun
Prof. Dr. Lisong Ma
Guest Editors

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