Soil-borne fungal pathogens of sesame: insights into pathogenesis and control

Sesame (Sesamum indicum), nicknamed the queen of oilseeds, is a globally important oilseed crop, recognized for its culinary, industrial, and medicinal uses. However, its production is seriously threatened by several soil-borne fungal pathogens such as Macrophomina phaseolina, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. Sesami, Corynespora cassiicola, and Pythium spp. These fungi pose serious threats to the quality of the harvest as well as the yield of this crop. This review provides an in-depth overview of the biology, genetic diversity, and growth requirements of sesame, before focusing on the major soil-borne fungal pathogens affecting this plant, their symptoms, and epidemiology. The main molecular tools allowing the characterization of these phytopathogens are also discussed. Management approaches including integrated disease management (IDM), biological control, cultural practices, and chemical controls are reviewed in detail. This review also examines the progress made in genetic resistance mechanisms and breeding programs for sesame varieties that are resistant to these fungi. Innovative approaches such as CRISPR-Cas9 and RNA interference (RNAi) are also discussed in the context of improving the management of soil-borne pathogens. This review highlights the importance of sustainable procedures to control soil-borne phytopathogens and optimize sesame health and productivity.