Summary
This narrative review examines the roles of carbohydrates in plant immunity, distinguishing between those functioning as defence elicitors and those acting as signalling molecules analogous to phytohormones. The authors synthesise evidence on oligosaccharide perception (PAMPs, MAMPs, DAMPs), structure–activity relationships, and sugar-mediated plant–microbe interactions. The review then appraises the practical potential and biological constraints of applying carbohydrate-based foliar sprays for disease management, emphasising the importance of leaf cuticle properties and phyllosphere microbial communities in determining efficacy.
Regional applicability
The review addresses universal plant physiology principles applicable to crop protection in any region, including the United Kingdom. Transferability of foliar spray recommendations will depend on UK climatic conditions, phyllosphere composition, and crop-specific disease pressures, which are not explored in this conceptual review.
Key measures
Carbohydrate structure–activity relationships; plant immune response pathways; perception of PAMPs, MAMPs, and DAMPs; leaf cuticle and phyllosphere microflora interactions.
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises knowledge on carbohydrate classes that elicit plant defence responses and act as signalling molecules, and evaluates the potential and constraints of applying these compounds as foliar sprays for crop disease protection.
Topic tags
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