A multilayer strategy is needed to uncover the clubroot pathogen mysteries

Clubroot is a devastating disease affecting cruciferous crops worldwide, caused by the obligate parasite Plas-modiophora brassicae. Currently, the use of clubroot resistant cultivars is the best strategy to stop the spreading of the disease and avoid millionaire loses experienced by the industry every year. Unfortunately, after decades of research, clubroot resistance is being overcome by new pathotypes and the mechanisms behind this remain unknown. Here we discuss how we can advance our understanding of the pathogen and the host through ge-nomics. However, this multilayered strategy needs to be concerted to find a stable solution for growers.

Automated summary

Clubroot, caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae, is a devastating disease that affects cruciferous crops worldwide. The use of resistant cultivars is currently the best strategy to control the disease, but new pathotypes are emerging that can overcome resistance. Understanding the genomics of the pathogen and host is crucial for finding a stable solution for growers.