Gene pyramiding an advanced approach for disease management in rice: A review

Abstract

Gene pyramiding is a vital strategy for varietal development in different crops. By using fewer generations than conventional breeding, molecular marker genotyping can streamline the gene pyramiding process. Enhancing the genetic foundation of resistance is crucial for reducing the burden of pesticide residues in the food chain, making it an effective strategy. The development of different pyramided lines carrying single or in combination of different diseases resistant genes in rice viz., Xa4, xa5, xa13, Xa21, and Xa38 for bacterial leaf blight; Pi1, Pi2, Pi9, Pi54, Pi46, and Pita for blast; qSBR7-1, qSBR11-1, and qSBR11-2 for sheath blight. The pyramided lines consist of either single or combinations of various resistance genes, which are instrumental in disease-resistant genetic improvement programs. These lines are utilized to develop profitable varieties that exhibit resistance to multiple diseases.