Clubroot Resistant in Cruciferous Crops: Recent Advances in Genes and QTLs Identification and Utilization

Abstract

Clubroot, caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae (P. brassicae), poses a serious threat to cruciferous crop production worldwide. Breeding resistant varieties remains the most cost-effective strategy to mitigate yield losses, yet achieving durable, stable, and broad-spectrum resistance continues to be a formidable challenge. Recent advances in genetic and genomic technologies have improved the understanding of complex host–pathogen interactions, leading to the identification of key resistance loci, including dominant resistance genes such as CRa and Crr1, as well as quantitative trait loci (QTLs). This review discusses the genetic mechanisms governing clubroot resistance and highlights applications in breeding, such as marker-assisted selection (MAS) and CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing, which are accelerating the development of resistant germplasm. Furthermore, integrated management strategies—encompassing resistant cultivars, crop rotation, biocontrol agents, and soil amendments—are emphasized as critical components for sustainable disease. This review summarizes the major resistance genes against clubroot and discusses potential strategies to address the persistent threat posed by the disease.