Disease resistance - Vitality Hormone Clinic

What is disease resistance?

Disease resistance refers to the ability of a plant or animal to prevent or limit infection by a pathogen such as a virus, bacteria, or fungus. There are several types of disease resistance in plants:

• Horizontal resistance - Provides resistance to multiple strains or races of a pathogen. This type of resistance is generally more durable over time.
• Vertical resistance - Provides resistance to specific strains or races of a pathogen. This resistance tends to be less durable as new pathogen races can develop to overcome it.
• Qualitative resistance - Resistance that is controlled by one or a few major genes and generally provides complete protection or high levels of resistance.
• Quantitative resistance - Resistance that is controlled by multiple minor genes and generally provides partial or intermediate levels of resistance.

Plants have developed complex physical and chemical defense systems against pathogens over the course of evolution. These defense mechanisms are activated upon infection and include:

• Structural barriers - Like waxy layers, cell walls, hairs, etc. that physically block pathogen entry.
• Biochemical barriers - Antimicrobial compounds produced to kill or inhibit growth of pathogens.
• Hypersensitive response - Programmed cell death around infection sites to limit pathogen spread.

Breeding crops for enhanced disease resistance is a major goal in plant breeding programs. Identifying and introducing resistance genes from diverse genetic sources helps create varieties with durable resistance. Combining multiple genetic resistance factors also leads to more long-lasting protection.

At Vitality Hormone Clinic, our dedicated physicians stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in personalized medicine to help patients struggling with hormonal issues. We develop customized treatment plans that incorporate cutting-edge genetic testing, nutrition plans, lifestyle changes and hormone therapies tailored to your unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about our holistic approach!