Genetic and molecular landscapes of the generalist phytopathogen Botrytis cinerea

Abstract

Botrytis cinerea Pers. Fr. (teleomorph: Botryotinia fuckeliana) is a necrotrophic fungal pathogen that attacks a wide range of plants. This updated pathogen profile explores the extensive genetic diversity of B. cinerea, highlights the progress in genome sequencing, and provides current knowledge of genetic and molecular mechanisms employed by the fungus to attack its hosts. In addition, we also discuss recent innovative strategies to combat B. cinerea.TaxonomyKingdom: Fungi, phylum: Ascomycota, subphylum: Pezizomycotina, class: Leotiomycetes, order: Helotiales, family: Sclerotiniaceae, genus: Botrytis, species: cinerea.Host rangeB. cinerea infects almost all of the plant groups (angiosperms, gymnosperms, pteridophytes, and bryophytes). To date, 1606 plant species have been identified as hosts of B. cinerea.Genetic diversityThis polyphagous necrotroph has extensive genetic diversity at all population levels shaped by climate, geography, and plant host variation.PathogenicityGenetic architecture of virulence and host specificity is polygenic using multiple weapons to target hosts, including secretory proteins, complex signal transduction pathways, metabolites, and mobile small RNA.Disease control strategiesEfforts to control B. cinerea, being a high‐diversity generalist pathogen, are complicated. However, integrated disease management strategies that combine cultural practices, chemical and biological controls, and the use of appropriate crop varieties will lessen yield losses. Recently, studies conducted worldwide have explored the potential of small RNA as an efficient and environmentally friendly approach for combating grey mould. However, additional research is necessary, especially on risk assessment and regulatory frameworks, to fully harness the potential of this technology.

Challenges and Opportunities Arising from Host–Botrytis cinerea Interactions to Outline Novel and Sustainable Control Strategies: The Key Role of RNA Interference

“…As recently highlighted by Singh et al [ 512 ], it is important to note that there is still a lot of work to be done if it is true that the function of 95% of B. cinerea genes is unknown. Furthermore, the polygenic nature of virulence and host specificity represent a further complication, and we must consider other important aspects: this necrotroph has a wide genetic diversity [ 512 ], and the levels and mechanisms of virulence may be influenced by the specific isolate analyzed.…”

“…As recently highlighted by Singh et al [512], it is important to note that there is still a lot of work to be done if it is true that the function of 95% of B. cinerea genes is unknown.…”

“…Furthermore, the polygenic nature of virulence and host specificity represent a further complication, and we must consider other important aspects: this necrotroph has a wide genetic diversity [512], and the levels and mechanisms of virulence may be influenced by the specific isolate analyzed.…”