Abstract
Bacterial blight of cotton (Gossypium ssp.), caused by Xanthomonas citri pathovar malvacearum, is a severe disease occurring in all cotton-growing areas. The interactions between host plants and the bacteria are based on the gene-for-gene concept, representing a complex resistance gene/avr gene system. In light of the recent data, this review focuses on the understanding of these interactions with emphasis on (1) the genetic basis for plant resist-ance and bacterial virulence, (2) physiological mechanisms involved in the hypersensitive response to the patho-gen, including hormonal signaling, the oxylipin pathway, synthesis of antimicrobial molecules and alteration of host cell structures, and (3) control of the disease.