Current Status and Future Prospects in Genomic Research and Breeding for Resistance to Xanthomonas citri pv. glycines in Soybean

Abstract

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is an economically important crop with high protein and oil contents. A range of biotic stresses constantly threaten soybean production and lead to decreases in yield and quality, but bacterial pustule caused by Xanthomonas citri pv. glycines (Xcg) is one of the most destructive diseases affecting worldwide soybean production. This review provides an extensive summary of multidisciplinary research on the soybean–Xcg interaction. First, we introduce general biological features of the causal agent Xcg as well as symptoms of the bacterial pustule disease it causes. Second, we review the geographic distribution of and genetic changes in the Xcg population over time, based on molecular evidence from recent studies. Third, we integrate several published studies to identify resistance loci against Xcg using bi-parental mapping populations and collections of germplasm along with genetic sources and molecular markers associated with resistance. Fourth, we summarize the molecular interactions between soybean and Xcg. Lastly, we discuss perspectives on future genomic research and breeding for improved resistance to Xcg in soybean.