Reprogramming immunity: TAL effector-informed genome editing in rice and other crops

Bacterial type III effector proteins, particularly transcription activator-like effectors (TALEs) secreted by Xanthomonas spp., play critical roles in pathogen-host dynamics. While TALEs facilitate bacterial infections, they also possess vulnerabilities that plants and scientists can exploit to develop mechanisms of resistance. This review encompasses the characteristics and functions of TALEs, examining both their virulence and avirulence roles, and the host plants' counter-strategies. We highlight advancements in genome editing technologies aimed at combating TALE-dependent plant diseases, with a focus on bacterial blight and leaf streak of rice, but also including bacterial blights of cotton and cassava, and citrus canker. Additionally, we share perspectives on various strategies and approaches for applying genome editing tools to improve disease resistance traits in crop breeding.