Abstract
Complete genomes of at least one species from nearly every genus of plant pathogenic bacteria have been sequenced, resulting in hundreds of megabases of new genetic information in the last decade. Many new virulence genes, often present in large pathogenicity islands, have been identified in both gram-negative and grampositive pathogens. The genome sequences, combined with functional genetic analyses, have allowed researchers to identify plant pathogen-specific virulence genes. The products of these virulence genes are attractive targets for disease control measures since methods targeting plant pathogen-specific mechanisms are less likely to endanger human health if bacterial resistance were to develop. Progress towards new disease control strategies depends on obtaining additional genome sequences; on describing the functions of bacterial proteins, RNAs, other polymers and signal molecules during all stages of the bacterial life cycle; and on transfer of technologically innovative pathogen detection methods to use with plant pathogens.