Summary
This comprehensive narrative review examines induced resistance as a sustainable alternative to conventional pesticides and single-resistance-gene approaches in crop protection. The authors synthesise decades of scientific progress in both internal (plant immunological) and external (ecological) IR strategies, discuss their multifaceted benefits including enhanced crop nutritional quality, and propose solutions to adoption barriers through epigenetic research and holistic, integrated approaches. The review positions IR as essential to a resilient, environmentally viable future for crop protection that combines multiple complementary strategies rather than relying on single-use technologies.
UK applicability
The IR mechanisms and integration strategies discussed are applicable to UK crop protection contexts, particularly as policy encourages reduced pesticide dependency and sustainable intensification. However, implementation would require adaptation to UK climatic conditions, pest and pathogen profiles, and regulatory frameworks for biological and chemical elicitors.
Key measures
Qualitative assessment of IR mechanisms, adoption barriers, and integration strategies; broad-spectrum protection efficacy; nutritional and nutraceutical enhancement potential
Outcomes reported
This narrative review examines scientific milestones in induced resistance (IR) strategies, both immunological and ecological, and identifies obstacles to widespread adoption alongside proposed solutions including epigenetic approaches. The review synthesises evidence on IR's capacity to provide broad-spectrum pest and pathogen protection whilst enhancing nutritional and nutraceutical crop value.
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