The course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms governing interactions between plants and their pathogens and to explain their significance for disease development, the evolution of plant defense strategies, and pathogen adaptation. The course introduces the principles of molecular phytopathology and explores host-pathogen interactions within the broader context of coevolution, genetic diversity, and selective pressures. Particular emphasis is placed on the molecular basis of plant immunity, including pathogen recognition, immune signaling pathways, effector-triggered interactions, resistance (R) and avirulence (Avr) genes, systemic acquired resistance, and other plant defense responses. Students will gain insight into the genetic diversity of plant pathogens, the evolutionary mechanisms by which pathogens overcome host resistance, and the role of host specificity in disease emergence and spread. The course also introduces modern approaches for studying host-pathogen interactions, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, functional genetics, molecular marker technologies, and bioinformatics. Attention is given to the identification and characterization of resistance genes, quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping, and the application of genome editing and other molecular tools for the development of disease-resistant crop varieties. Upon successful completion of the course, students will understand the molecular basis of compatible and incompatible plant-pathogen interactions, be able to interpret the genetic mechanisms underlying resistance and virulence, and critically evaluate the application of contemporary molecular approaches in phytopathological research and in breeding crops for resistance to biotic stresses.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to explain the fundamental genetic and molecular principles underlying plant-pathogen interactions and their role in disease development, plant immunity, and pathogen evolution. They will understand the molecular mechanisms of pathogen recognition, immune signaling, effector-triggered responses, and the genetic basis of resistance and virulence. Students will be able to describe the major models of host-pathogen interactions, interpret the function of resistance (R) and avirulence (Avr) genes, and explain the evolutionary processes that shape host resistance and pathogen adaptation. They will gain an understanding of the significance of genetic diversity in both hosts and pathogens and its impact on disease dynamics and the durability of resistance. Graduates of the course will be able to evaluate the application of modern molecular and genomic approaches, including molecular markers, functional genomics, transcriptomics, and genome editing, in the study of plant diseases and the development of disease-resistant crop varieties. They will be capable of critically interpreting scientific literature and applying their knowledge to phytopathological research, plant breeding, and the management of biotic stresses in agricultural systems.
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Acquaah G. (2012). Principles of Plant Genetics and Breeding. Wiley.
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Agrios, G.N. (2005). Plant Pathology. 5th Edition. Oxford.
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Buchanan B.B., Gruissem W., Jones R.L. (2001). Biochemistry and Molecular Biology of Plants.. Soc. Plant Physiol. Rockville.
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Dickinson, M. (2003). Molecular plant pathology.
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Řepková, J., Relichová, J. (2001). Genetika rostlin. 1. vyd.. Brno.
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Snustad, D.P., Simmons, M.J. (2009). Genetika. Brno.
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Šmarda, J. a kol. (2005). Metody molekulární biologie. Brno.
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Welsh, J.R. (1981). Fundamentals of plant genetics and breeding.. New York.
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