Understanding the genetics of Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) resistance in mung bean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)

Abstract

Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) is a deadly biotic stress caused by the fungus Cercospora canescens, making mung bean cultivation difficult worldwide. The progress made in creating CLS-resistant mung bean varieties is encouraging. However, as the pathogen rapidly evolves, it is critical to understand the pathogen dynamics and develop effective screening procedures. Plant breeders need to know about the genetic diversity of mung beans and their wild relatives, gene function and accessible molecular markers. Molecular mapping of pathogen resistance genes in mung bean varieties is now possible due to advancements in next-generation sequencing methods and the availability of genetic sources. Breeding programmes will be accelerated by developing the potential markers linked with resistance to the fungal pathogen. This method saves time by preventing time-consuming breeding to change genetic backgrounds. This review focuses on the current status of knowledge on the disease, genetic resources available for this and advances made in traditional and marker-assisted breeding for CLS resistance in mung bean worldwide.