Biological Control of Fusarium Head Blight in Cereals: Insights into Molecular Interactions within the Pathosystem

Abstract Small cereals such as wheat, barley, and oat are staple food that directly (food) and indirectly (feed) sustain large populations globally. However, their production is increasingly threatened by both abiotic and biotic stresses. Biotic stresses, primarily caused by plant pathogen such as fungi, bacteria, oomycota and viruses are responsible for nearly half of the annual crop losses. Many plant pathogens produce mycotoxins, which contaminate crops and pose significant risks affecting human health. Fusarium spp., particularly those associated with Fusarium head blight (FHB) on cereal, are mycotoxin producers. The economic and health impacts of FHB make it a critical area of research. Although several strategies exist to control FHB, none can fully eradicate the disease. Challenges include pathogen resistance to chemical fungicides and regulatory restriction on genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Biological control offers a sustainable alternative, utilizing living organism to counteract pathogens. Here we explore the mechanisms of biological control based on complex molecular patterns involved during the three-way interaction between plant, pathogen and biocontrol agent. We analyze the FHB pathosystem and associated BCAs from multiple perspectives, providing a comprehensive insight to BCAs efficacy. Information © The Authors 2025